The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report that about 474 persons have lost their lives within a span of 56 days during this winter season in Delhi.

The media report, carried on 16th January 2025 had claimed that according to the Centre for Holistic Development (CHD), an NGO working with the homeless, these deaths have taken place between 15th December, 2024 to 10th January, 2025, due to the unavailability of essential protective measures such as warm clothing, blankets, and adequate shelters. Citing a few specific examples of the people living on the streets, the media report had also stated that they were facing numerous health challenges including respiratory infections, skin ailments flair-ups and deteriorating mental health. Additionally, it had reported that about 80 percent of the unidentified dead bodies in Delhi are believed to be homeless individuals.

The NHRC stated that if the contents of the news report are true, they raise a serious violation of human rights. Therefore, it has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and the Commissioner of Police, Delhi calling for a detailed report in the matter within one week.