The Deccan Chronicle 22.09.2010
SHRC case in Beggar’s Colony deathsSept. 21: The State Human Rights Commission has registered a case of culpable negligence and held officials of Beggars Colony directly responsible for the recent series of deaths there. The rights commission said Manje Gowda, former chairman, central relief committee, Krishnegowda, joint director, backward classes department and former secretary of the committee Lakshminarasimhaiah, former superintendent, Dr G. Harimurthy, medical officer in charge, M. Mahadevaiah, chief warder, D. Bhagyalakshmi, receiving officer, and Hanumantharayappa, head warder for the state of affairs at the colony.
It said the atmosphere at the colony is deplorable and sub-human. Assault, deprivation of food was resorted as punishment instead of redressal of the inmates’ grievances. Though the deteriorating health conditions of inmates was visible on Sunday August 15, it was only on August 17 that they got care when the inmates started dying, it states.
SHRC chairperson Justice Nayak has made certain recommendations which holds good for all beggar centres across the state stating that procedure of admission requires to be followed scrupulously. Standing committee of all agencies connected with functioning of the centre BBMP, BWSSB, Health and others should be formed, he said. Justice Nayak sought a compliance report in six months.
