In the wake of the tragic deaths of UPSC aspirants due to waterlogging in Delhi, the Delhi government has pledged to introduce legislation to regulate coaching centres. Addressing a press conference on July 31, Delhi Minister Atishi announced the government’s plan, citing the need for accountability and safety measures within the coaching industry.
Atishi highlighted the findings of an interim inquiry report, revealing that coaching centres were largely responsible for the waterlogging. The report stated that the drain, crucial for water drainage in the area, had been encroached upon by coaching centres, hindering the flow of water. Furthermore, the report highlighted the illegal operation of coaching centres in basements and the establishment of libraries within those spaces.
Taking immediate action, the Delhi government has already commenced a crackdown on illegal activities within coaching centres. The Junior Engineer responsible for the drain and its maintenance has been permanently terminated from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) for failing to prevent the encroachments. Additionally, the Assistant Engineer has been suspended.
The government has assured swift and severe consequences for those responsible for the deaths and the unsafe conditions within the coaching centres. A magisterial report is expected within six days, and strict action will be taken against any individuals found guilty. Encroachments by coaching centres on the drain have been bulldozed, and the government has been actively taking steps to shut down coaching centres operating illegally in basements and libraries for the past three days.
