Homelessness is generally described as an absence of a physical dwelling.  However, homelessness triggers many social and economic factors that, together, perpetuate patterns of vulnerability amongst the urban homeless.  This case is an anthology of three long-form narratives that relate the complexity of vulnerability and deprivation in the lives of the homeless in the streets of Delhi. Through action research, photo-journalism, and ethnography, the case explores the trajectory of vulnerability through the lens of violence, health, psychological impacts, social bonds, and access to housing. The case narrates the realities of homelessness in Delhi as well as their official and informal responses. By presenting an integrated perspective of the drivers of homelessness and the complex nature of vulnerability and deprivation, this case allows learners to consider alterative indicators when thinking about social safety nets and reimagine how to design basic services in the city.

About the Case Author
Ashwin Parulkar completed an MFA in creative writing and an MA in international relations at Syracuse University.  He currently writes on a range of issues related to hunger and social exclusion as a senior researcher with Center for Equity Studies.  Previously, wrote on India, Nepal, and Bhutan for Freedom House’s Freedom in the World report and has served as a consultant at numerous international research and human rights organizations, including the International Food Policy Research Institute, UNICEF, the International Service for Human Rights, and ActionAid International.