For the homeless people, Delhi’s winters are nothing less than death warrant. About 195 deaths have been reported in this December month. As per the latest survey by an NGO, Centre for Holistic Development (CHD), the existing night shelters do not follow National Urban livelihoods Mission (NUHM) guidelines.
It is important to mention here that Delhi has RCC buildings, 114 PORTA cabin, 56 tent and one subway to give accommodation to homeless people with capacity of 9,659, 7,075, 2,900 and 350 respectively. According to NUHM guidelines, the dedicated spaces for per person should be 50 square meter whereas existing space per person is 11 square meter.
According to the CHD, the population of homeless people in Delhi is near 50,000, however, every year around 3,000 homeless people die due to harsh climate conditions. "The conditions of these people in night shelters are pathetic. Existing shelters are not sufficient corresponding to their numbers and that has resulted in the recent death of 195 men," said Sunil Kumar Aledia, Executive Director, CHD.
Meanwhile, BJP leaders and Delhi Sikh Gurudwara Management Committee (DSGMC) has come forward and constructed temporary shelter for the homeless.
Delhi BJP President Manoj Tiwari along with DSGMC General Secretary Manjinder Singh Sirsa visited in Delhi Government night shelters on Friday and Saturday. After visiting night shelters, Sirsa said, "DSGMC had deputed its staff and volunteers to get these shelter homes ready by using tents and other materials and with the grace of god these were ready within 20 hours."