The Delhi High Court appealed to members of the Delhi High Court Bar Association (DHCBA) to mobilise donations in support of a proposed night shelter facility at AIIMS for patients, attendants and their families forced to sleep outdoors during extreme winter conditions. A Division Bench comprising Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia observed that the Bar could play a constructive role in generating funds to assist AIIMS in addressing the humanitarian crisis.
The Court was informed that AIIMS has proposed the construction of a large bedded night shelter on approximately two acres of land as a long-term solution. After being apprised that the institution accepts donations, the Bench encouraged the Bar to voluntarily contribute, noting that formal directions were unnecessary. The Additional Solicitor General, Chetan Sharma assured the Court that the Bar would take up the cause, stating that he himself would make the first contribution.
DHCBA President and Senior Advocate N. Hariharan assured the Court that the association would act on the request and take steps to collect donations, recalling similar efforts undertaken by the Bar during past humanitarian crises.
The Court also reviewed measures taken by authorities following earlier directions to deal with the cold wave situation. It noted that coordination meetings had been held under the supervision of the Principal District and Sessions Judge, resulting in the setting up of temporary shelters, cleaning and utilisation of subways, and steps to ensure that vulnerable persons were not left exposed to severe cold. Expressing satisfaction with the coordinated response of government agencies and civic bodies, the Bench observed that the situation had shown improvement over the past two days.
Appreciating the initiatives taken by AIIMS administration, the Court observed that the proposed night shelter facility would significantly alleviate the hardships faced by homeless patients and attendants. It directed all agencies concerned to extend full cooperation for the project and instructed nodal officers to remain vigilant and promptly address any deficiencies in night shelter arrangements. The matter has been listed for further review later this month.