Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa Human Rights Commission (GHRC) has called on the State government to take urgent steps to strengthen rehabilitation services for persons with mental illness and homeless individuals, observing that progress on key facilities has remained slow despite directions issued by the Supreme Court.
As part of its preliminary recommendations, the Commission has proposed the constitution of a committee headed by a nodal officer to evaluate the present situation, identify immediate measures and prepare a comprehensive rehabilitation and empowerment framework.
The suggested committee will comprise representatives from various government departments, the Goa State Mental Health Authority, voluntary organisations, the complainant and the Disability Rights Association of Goa, with the aim of developing a coordinated response to the issue.
The Commission expressed concern over the delay in operationalising the proposed halfway home at Chimbel, noting that the project has shown little progress for more than a year. It recommended that the government expedite the establishment of halfway homes and long-term residential facilities for people recovering from mental illness who have been discharged from institutions but are unable to live independently, as well as for homeless persons requiring care and rehabilitation.
The proceedings arose from a complaint submitted in August 2025 by Arturo Carlos D’Souza, who alleged shortcomings in rehabilitation infrastructure and delays in financial support to organisations managing shelter homes.
During the inquiry, the Directorate of Social Welfare informed the Commission that Street Providence Trust currently operates 11 shelter homes accommodating approximately 180 residents. The department also stated that the Trust received a grant of ₹50 lakh in June 2025 to support its operations.
The GHRC has directed the concerned authorities to submit an action taken report within 30 days detailing the measures initiated in response to its recommendations, particularly those relating to rehabilitation facilities and support systems for vulnerable individuals.
