Swati Maliwal Calls Out Negligence at Asha Kiran Shelter Home in Delhi
Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal has exposed severe lapses in administration and care at the Asha Kiran shelter home in Delhi’s Rohini area. She described the situation as ‘criminal negligence’ after an official report revealed 14 deaths in July alone, out of a total of 25 deaths since February 2024.
Conditions at Asha Kiran
Maliwal criticized the shelter home for its unhygienic conditions, inadequate food, and overcrowding. She noted that 46 women are kept in each small room without beds, and the heat inside is unbearable. She stated, ‘Doctors have repeatedly written in the reports of the girls that they were victims of malnutrition.’
Political Reactions
NCW Chairperson Rekha Sharma led a fact-finding team to the shelter home and found numerous administrative lapses, including poor hygiene, overcrowding, and lack of medical care. Congress leader Abhishek Dutt and BJP MP Manoj Tiwari also criticized the Delhi government for the poor conditions at the shelter home.
Government Response
Delhi Minister Atishi announced a magisterial inquiry into the deaths and assured strict action against any officials found negligent. Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has called for a comprehensive inquiry into all shelter homes run by the GNCTD and has requested a report within a week.
Doubts Revealed
Swati Maliwal -: Swati Maliwal is a Member of Parliament (MP) in the Rajya Sabha, which is one of the two houses of India’s Parliament. She is known for her work in social issues, especially those affecting women and children.
Asha Kiran Shelter Home -: Asha Kiran Shelter Home is a place in Delhi where people who need help, like those without homes or those with mental health issues, can stay. It is supposed to provide them with care and support.
Rajya Sabha -: Rajya Sabha is the upper house of India’s Parliament. It is like a group of important people who help make laws for the country.
Rohini area -: Rohini is a part of Delhi, which is the capital city of India. It is one of the many areas or neighborhoods in the city.
NCW Chairperson Rekha Sharma -: NCW stands for National Commission for Women, which is a group that works to protect and promote the rights of women in India. Rekha Sharma is the head of this group.
Magisterial inquiry -: A magisterial inquiry is an investigation conducted by a magistrate, who is a type of judge. This inquiry is done to find out the truth about serious issues or incidents.
Lieutenant Governor -: The Lieutenant Governor is a high-ranking official in Delhi who helps manage the city. This person has important duties and helps make sure the city runs smoothly.
