NHRC seeks explanation from Delhi govt over death of 78 inmates at Tahipur Leprosy home

NEW DELHI: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought detailed explanation from the Delhi government over reported death of 78 people in a state-run leprosy beggar's home in Northeast Delhi's Tahirpur area in five years.

In a recent notice to the Delhi Chief Secretary, MM Kutty, the commission noted that it has asked to provide details deaths happened between 2008 and 2012 but the city government has failed to explain to the NHRC the reasons behind them. It has also sought details regarding alleged financial irregularities.

The rights body had earlier observed that the report is silent about the cause of death of 78 inmates within five years and also about the allegations of financial irregularities.

"Chief Secretary, Government of NCT of Delhi is asked to direct an officer of Home Department to cause an enquiry regarding the allegations of financial irregularities alleged to have been highlighted in the complaint and also about the cause of death of 78 inmates between 2008 and 2012. The IO should also submit a report about the medical facilities being given to the inmates in the beggars' home," it added.

Pursuant to the NHRC directions, the Deputy Secretary (Home) had submitted a report which gives the cause of only 22 deaths. "However, it has not given the details of all individual cases and their cause of deaths," the notice said.

According to a report, NHRC said that an inquiry into the matter must be carried by a sub-divisional magistrate. The commission also wants to know whether between 2008 and 2012 any doctor was assigned to look after the health of the inmates and whether any clinic is available for them.

The notice further sought; "Recently the NCT of Delhi has announced to provide meal @ Rs. 10/- to the poor. The Commission would like to know whether the State Government is considering providing 2 meals per day to the inmates of the Beggar Homes also. It is therefore, requested that the additional/complete report as directed by the Commission in the matter."