Upparpet Police Relocate Homeless People to Shelters to Prevent Unnatural Deaths

Upparpet police officials have relocated destitute and homeless individuals from the Upparpet Police Station jurisdiction, located near the Kempegowda Bus Station, to rehabilitation centres to protect them from harsh weather, illnesses, and unnatural deaths. The ongoing initiative aims to provide vulnerable citizens with secure shelter, meals, and healthcare.

The area under the Upparpet Police Station's jurisdiction has historically seen a high concentration of destitute people. Due to local temples offering prasada and philanthropists providing free meals, many homeless individuals gather in the vicinity. While food is readily available, the lack of shelter leaves them highly vulnerable to extreme weather conditions and illnesses.

Upparpet Police Inspector Krishnamurthy S stated that winter is the harshest season for the destitute, with mortality rates peaking during this period. To combat this, police officials have been actively moving people to shelters. Recently, seven destitute individuals were relocated to the AiR Humanitarian Home in Bannerghatta, where they receive free accommodation and food.

The initiative is a response to a high number of unnatural deaths recorded in the jurisdiction. According to police records, Upparpet Police Station registered over 92 unnatural deaths in 2024, compared to 117 in 2005. By the end of June 2026, the count of unnatural deaths had already crossed 45. Inspector Krishnamurthy S noted that when unnatural deaths occur, the police attempt to trace the next of kin. If no one claims the body, police constables are assigned to arrange the final rites.

To support the rehabilitation process, the police are collaborating with Elizabeth Darvin, the Service Executive at AiR Humanitarian Home. Darvin coordinates with the police to provide weekly or monthly updates on the condition of the relocated individuals.

However, the transition is not always seamless. Darvin mentioned that some relocated individuals occasionally insist on returning to the Upparpet area because they feel unfamiliar with the shelter's environment. In such cases, staff members counsel them about the facilities available, and the police are kept informed of those who choose not to stay.