Human Rights Body Sends Notice To Delhi Govt Over '474 Deaths' In 56 Days Of Winter
The National Human Rights Commission has sought investigation into 474 reported deaths of homeless individuals in Delhi during winter.
The National Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of 474 reported deaths of homeless persons during this winter season in Delhi within a span of 56 days. The human rights body has sent notices to the Chief Secretary and the Commissioner of Police, Delhi seeking a detailed report in the matter within one week.
In a press release, the NHRC referred to data from the Centre for Holistic Development (CHD), an NGO working with the homeless, about 474 persons being killed between December 15, 2024 and January 10, 2025.
As per the NGO, the deaths took place due to the unavailability of essential protective measures such as warm clothing, blankets, and adequate shelter.
The NGO further claimed that around 80 per cent of the unidentified dead bodies in the national capital "are believed to be homeless individuals."
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"The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report that according to the Centre for Holistic Development (CHD), an NGO working with the homeless, about 474 persons have lost their lives within a span of 56 days during this winter season in Delhi," the NHRC said in its release.
"The Commission has observed that the contents of the news report, if true, raise a serious violation of human rights. Therefore, it has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and the Commissioner of Police, Delhi calling for a detailed report in the matter within one week," it added.
"According to the media report, carried on 16th January, 2025, many shelters in the National Capital are unable to meet the demand and those, that are available, often lack essential facilities like heating and hot water, leaving the individuals exposed to the bitter cold," said the human rights body.
"Citing a few specific examples of the people living on the streets, the media report has also stated that they are facing numerous health challenges including respiratory infections, skin ailments flair-ups and deteriorating mental health," it added.
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