Tragedy Strikes Delhi Coaching Institutes: MCD Seals Properties Following Deaths of UPSC Aspirants
In a tragic turn of events, three UPSC aspirants lost their lives due to basement flooding at Rau’s IAS Study Circle in Delhi’s Old Rajinder Nagar. In immediate response, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has sealed seven properties, including three basements in Karol Bagh, for violating by-laws.
This incident has plunged the city into a state of sorrow and indignation. The deaths have raised severe questions about the safety norms in coaching institutes, many of which operate from basements never intended for human occupancy. The situation has highlighted not just the regulatory failures but also the pressing need for better urban planning and building compliance in the nation’s capital.
Background
Delhi, a hub for IAS aspirants from all over India, houses numerous coaching centers, especially in regions like Karol Bagh and Old Rajinder Nagar. These centers often convert basements into classrooms or libraries without adhering to strict safety measures. In this case, the basement of Rau’s IAS Study Circle, where the incident occurred, had been allegedly shown as a parking and storage area in official documents to obtain a No-Objection Certificate (NOC). However, it was used as a library, contravening the building by-laws.
The Incident
The dreadful incident took place on the night of July 27, 2024, when heavy rainfall led to water gushing into the basement of Rau’s IAS Study Circle. The basement rapidly flooded, leaving the students trapped and resulting in the death of three aspirants. The tragic accident sparked protests and demands for stringent action against those responsible.
Immediate Action
As the news spread, MCD officials acted swiftly, sealing not only the premises of Rau’s IAS but also seven other properties in Karol Bagh for by-law violations. The civic body’s teams conducted inspections and promptly shut down facilities operating unauthorized basements. This decisive action is part of a broader initiative to ensure that all coaching centers and similar establishments comply with safety regulations.
Ongoing Investigations and Reactions
In light of the suffering, the coaching institute has stated that it is "fully committed to supporting the probe." However, this assurance has done little to quell public anger. Families of the deceased have demanded that the owner of the coaching institute be booked for culpable homicide. Consequently, both the owner and coordinator of the institute have been detained by the police.
As the investigation unfolds, two main theories are being explored: the excessive water pressure that the building’s infrastructure could not withstand, and whether a gate was inadvertently left open, allowing water to pour into the basement. Videos circulating online have shown the horrifying moment water began to flood the basement, only adding to the public outrage.
Delhi Lt Governor V K Saxena has termed the incident as "criminal neglect," citing the lack of basic maintenance as a significant contributor. This sentiment resonates with the general public, who are calling for more stringent regulatory oversight.
Protests and Public Sentiment
The deaths have ignited widespread protests, leading to roadblocks and significant traffic jams near Karol Bagh Metro Station. Students and civil society groups are vociferously demanding justice for the victims and more rigorous enforcement of building safety norms.
Conclusion
This tragic event has cast a pall over Delhi, bringing to the forefront the critical issue of safety compliance in educational establishments. The MCD’s rapid action to seal non-compliant properties is a step in the right direction, but it also highlights the urgent need for systemic reforms to prevent such occurrences in the future.
For more details and updates, visit Rau’s IAS Official Website.
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