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Urban homelessness and baseras/shelters: an evaluative study conducted during winter in NCT Delhi

ABSTRACT The relentless winters in Delhi compel many urban homeless to nestle in shelters run by the Delhi Government with the aid of non-governmental organizations. However, many still chose not to stay in those shelters. With Supreme Court of India’s directive following the spur in death toll of homeless due to dipping mercury, it becomes imperative to appraise the living conditions of the shelter homes in Delhi so that no homeless sleeps rough. This study has assessed the initiatives taken by Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) to upgrade the quality of life of the homeless. In this primary study, 21 caretakers and 72 inmates from 21 baseras situated in all 11 districts of Delhi were selected based on convenience and purposive sampling and interviewed. The thematic analysis is done to evaluate the facilities provided to shelter seekers including safety and security, the developments that have come up in the recent past, and the reasons for homelessness. Based on findings of this empirical study, recommendations have been put forward for the policymakers. To conclude, the authorities have overhauled persistently in improvising the living standards of homeless in Delhi but a lot more needs to be done.