Delhi Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood inspects night shelters; flags corruption, irregularities

Delhi Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood on Thursday conducted a surprise inspection of five night shelters operating at the Sarai Kale Khan and flagged serious lapses in their functioning.

He warned of strict action against the violators and hinted at a possible CBI probe if necessary, saying public funds meant for the poor had been systematically siphoned off in collusion with NGOs.

Addressing the media after the visit, Sood said the government had been receiving complaints for several months about irregularities in night shelter operations from ghost employees and poor facilities to financial fraud. “We were informed through written reports and public petitions that senior AAP leaders and NGOs colluded to embezzle funds meant for the city’s homeless,” he said.

During the inspection, the minister found no attendance registers and raised concern over the exploitation of residents who were being made to work as cleaners for Rs 5,000 a month.

Sood alleged that hundreds of supervisors were officially appointed for these shelters under the AAP regime, but most never showed up for work. “We found that even basic amenities are missing. Those responsible, whether politicians, NGOs or officials, will be held accountable. We will hand over the case to the Vigilance Department, and if needed, to the CBI,” he added.

The minister came down heavily on the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) and directed officials to fix accountability. He also issued warnings to the NGOs running the shelters to immediately improve their operations or face cancellation of contracts and legal action.

Reassuring residents amid circulating rumors, Sood said, “Some people are spreading fake news that these night shelters will be demolished and the occupants will be thrown out. I want to assure every resident that this government stands with you. No shelter will be demolished. Strict action will be taken against those spreading such lies.”