The vulnerability context of homelessness in Delhi: evaluating the network shelter governance system

Ashwin Parulkar

Chapter 10 in A Modern Guide to Urban Poverty, 2026, pp 191-226 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Homelessness policy in India emerged around 2010 amid conflict. Neoliberal deregulation and privatization led to slum and shelter demolitions, displacing homeless people. Activist non-governmental organizations compelled judiciaries to mandate shelters with adequate living space and essential services under the Indian Constitution. Delhi's shelter system, a network of state and non-governmental organization agencies, built nearly 200 shelters by 2012. However, the system now accommodates about 16,000 people, with only a third using shelters, and allocates 18 square feet per resident—well below the 50 square feet guideline set by the federal government. Increasing homeless deaths, frequent demolitions for land deals, and lack of promised services point to serious governance challenges. This chapter examines the capacity of Delhi's shelter system to meet the basic needs of homeless people. It explores how neoliberalism and informality have undermined shelter and service provision, leaving the homeless vulnerable to further deprivation, particularly those displaced, migrant, and unsheltered.

Keywords: Homelessness; State Capacity; Network Governance; Basic Needs; Informality; India (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781800889682
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