The escalating cold wave in North India claimed two lives in Panipat early this morning, as two unidentified homeless men were found dead on the footpaths near the city’s busy transport hubs. The incident has sparked a major outcry regarding the adequacy of winter arrangements for the destitute.
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The Discovery: The bodies were discovered by morning walkers near the Panipat Railway Station and the Old Bus Stand area. Both men, estimated to be in their late 40s and early 50s, were found huddled under thin plastic sheets. Preliminary medical examinations suggest that both died due to hypothermia as the mercury dipped to a bone-chilling 4°C overnight.
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Administrative Inquiry: Taking a serious view of the deaths, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Panipat has ordered a high-level inquiry. The probe will specifically look into whether the municipal night shelters (Rain Baseras) were operational and if the “Rescue Patrols” tasked with moving the homeless to shelters were active during the night.
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Public Outcry: Locals and social activists have criticized the administration, alleging that while night shelters exist, they are often overcrowded or located far from the areas where the homeless congregate. “It is a failure of the system when people die on the streets just a few hundred meters away from government buildings,” said a local social worker.
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Immediate Measures: Following the tragedy, the district administration has:
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Increased Night Patrols: Police and Municipal Corporation (MC) teams have been directed to forcibly move anyone sleeping in the open to the nearest shelter.
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Emergency Supplies: Extra blankets and wood for bonfires have been distributed at five major transit points in the city.
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Audit of Shelters: A surprise audit of all existing night shelters has been initiated to ensure they have functional heaters and clean bedding.
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Identification Process: The police have shifted the bodies to the Civil Hospital for a post-mortem. Efforts are underway to identify the deceased through the Aadhaar database and biometric matching to inform their families.
