The Hindu : Homeless demand a roof

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Monday, Mar 01, 2004

New Delhi

New Delhi

Homeless demand a roof

By Our Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI, FEB. 29. A large number of homeless persons gathered in the backdrop of the historic Jama Masjid at Urdu Park on Sunday for the second Mahapanchayat and shared their experiences including the discriminatory treatment they undergo at the hands of the police and others who trample their rights day-in and day-out.

A forum where the large family of the homeless — the shelter users and the shelterless — come together, the Mahapanchayat also provides them a platform to collectively demand the inalienable rights guaranteed to them under the Indian constitution — a life of peace and dignity.

Some of the concerns that they shared at the Mahapanchayat today are the inadequate number of shelters, unavailability of loans to start their own enterprises and difficulty in finding a place to sleep during the day. With regard to the existing 43 temporary spaces, the homeless stressed that shelter was required not only during winter but all through the year.

The Delhi Chief Minister, Sheila Dikshit, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion, announced that the temporary shelters for the homeless in the city would be extended till March 15. She also promised to incorporate the needs of the homeless in the development plan of the next five years and that such buildings will be constructed for the homeless that remain open for all through the year.

The Mahapanchayat, facilitated by the Aashray Adhikar Abhiyaan, was also an occasion where the charter of demands prepared by the homeless during the first such event held last year was reiterated. All the ongoing temporary shelters, it was argued, should be made permanent so that the homeless are protected from the adversaries of weather. All homeless, it was asserted, should be given voting identity card as well as ration card. It was also demanded that special shelters should be created for specific groups like the mentally ill, women, children, aged, physically challenged, substance dependents and homeless families. In the Urban Development Scheme, space must be ensured for the homeless.

To add an element of fun and frolic, a cultural programme was also woven into the Mahapanchayat. Professional homeless artists including magicians, singers and theatre performers enthralled all those present on the occasion.

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