The Bombay High Court on Monday expressed deep concern over a disturbing incident from 2012, where a New Year’s Eve party involving alcohol and dancers was allegedly held at a government-aided shelter home for differently-abled children in Mankhurd.
The court has now ordered a formal inquiry into the role of officials involved, pointing to a “shocking” lack of action over the past 13 years.
“Shocking” Lapse In Action
A division bench of Chief Justice Alok Aradhe and Justice Sandeep Marne said it was appalled that no punitive measures had been taken since the alleged incident occurred on December 31, 2012.
“It is surprising that while an inquiry was conducted at the time, no action has been taken against any officials or the then superintendent,” the bench noted, terming the matter a serious breach of duty.
Official Probe Ordered
The court directed the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities to initiate a detailed inquiry within six weeks and submit a report to the state government. The government has been instructed to take appropriate disciplinary action against the “delinquent” officials based on the findings.
Additionally, a compliance report is to be submitted to the court within 3 months.
PIL Highlights Disturbing Revelations
The court was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by social activist Sangeeta Punekar in 2014. The petition raised alarms about the overall condition and mismanagement of the Mankhurd shelter home, which was operated by the Children’s Aid Society and housed 265 inmates, many of whom were mentally challenged.
The PIL also alleged that during the 2012 New Year’s party, alcohol was served, and money was thrown at women dancers in the presence of 26 mentally challenged girls and officials of the shelter.
Moreover, the petition cited a separate 2014 incident where 2 staff members of the shelter were accused of sexually abusing two mentally challenged girls, further highlighting the unsafe environment for vulnerable residents.
Court Seeks Accountability
The bench underscored the importance of protecting the rights and dignity of differently-abled individuals, especially children housed in state-run facilities. It stressed that any complacency or negligence by authorities must be dealt with seriously.
The court’s intervention comes after years of silence and inaction on an incident that has raised serious concerns about oversight, accountability, and the safety of institutionalized care facilities in Maharashtra.
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