Delhi Government to Investigate Night Shelter Corruption, CBI Probe Not Ruled Out
New Delhi, June 27, 2025 — In a development that could lead to major political and legal ramifications, Delhi's Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood on Thursday hinted at the possibility of a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into large-scale corruption and negligence at government-run night shelters during the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) administration.
Sood made the remarks after conducting a surprise inspection of five night shelters operating in the parking area of the Sarai Kale Khan Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) in southeast Delhi. The inspection was triggered by a series of public complaints regarding poor living conditions and alleged exploitation of laborers residing in the shelters.
Key Findings from the Inspection
Minister Sood cited several alarming findings during the inspection:
- No Attendance Registers: Officials failed to produce any attendance or log records of staff or residents.
- Exploitation of Residents: Poor laborers were reportedly being made to work by staff members for as little as Rs 5,000 per month.
- False Reporting: Shelter management was allegedly collecting large amounts of money from the government based on inflated claims of services and staff.
- "Ghost" Employees: NGOs reportedly listed fake workers to siphon off salaries while understaffing the actual shelters.
- Violation of Labour Laws: A visibly ill man was found being used as a cleaner, paid far below the legal minimum wage.
“These acts are not just administrative lapses—they are human rights violations. We cannot allow the poorest of the poor to be abused in this way,” said Sood during a press briefing after the visit.
Accountability and Investigations Ahead
The Minister has ordered the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) to conduct a thorough review and file reports fixing accountability. Vigilance inquiries are already underway, and a formal CBI probe has not been ruled out.
“If needed, we will bring in the CBI. These shelters are funded by public money, and any misuse will be dealt with severely,” said Sood.
The DUSIB, responsible for the upkeep of over 200 night shelters in Delhi, will be required to submit a detailed audit of all NGOs and officials involved in shelter operations since 2015.
Allegations Against Former AAP Government
Sood did not mince words while attributing the problems to the former administration. “There are written complaints alleging that senior AAP leaders, including the former Chief Minister, colluded with NGOs to embezzle funds meant for shelter homes,” he said.
He further accused the previous government of using these NGOs as fronts to pocket public money under the guise of social welfare.
Background: Delhi's Night Shelters
Delhi operates over 200 night shelters to support its homeless and migrant population, especially during the extreme winter months. These facilities are supposed to provide free lodging, basic amenities, and safety.
However, multiple civil society reports and citizen complaints have highlighted long-standing issues including hygiene lapses, lack of medical support, overcrowding, and inadequate staffing.
What This Means Going Forward
The BJP-led Delhi government has made it clear that it will not tolerate any form of corruption in public welfare programs. This crackdown is expected to have wider implications:
- Policy Reform: A new policy may soon be drafted to introduce third-party audits and digital attendance systems in night shelters.
- Legal Action: If the findings are proven, several NGOs and former officials could face legal charges.
- Public Confidence: The government's proactive stance may restore faith in public welfare institutions.
Public Reaction and Political Ramifications
While the move has garnered support from citizens and civil society groups, it has also triggered a political storm. The Aam Aadmi Party has yet to respond officially, but sources within the party claim the allegations are politically motivated.
Meanwhile, Delhi BJP leaders have called for an immediate suspension of contracts awarded to suspect NGOs and a freeze on payments until the investigation is complete.
Reader Takeaway
The revelations from Sarai Kale Khan's night shelters highlight a grim reality of how public welfare systems can be compromised. If proven, these findings could shake the foundations of governance during the previous regime and set a new precedent for accountability in social programs.
Delhiites can expect stricter oversight of shelter homes in the coming months. The demand for justice and reform has been made loud and clear.