Delhi High Court Says Government Cannot Deny Night Shelters Citing Lack of Resources

The Delhi High Court held that providing night shelters is a bounden duty of the State and cannot be denied due to paucity of funds or resources.

The Court took suo motu cognisance of reports highlighting the plight of homeless persons and patients’ attendants forced to stay on streets outside hospitals during cold-wave conditions. It observed that denial of adequate shelter violates the right to life and dignity under the Constitution.

The Court directed authorities and land-owning agencies to cooperate with the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board to ensure sufficient night shelter facilities near hospitals.

The matter has been listed for further monitoring and compliance reports.