The tragic deaths of three UPSC aspirants in Delhi due to flooding in a coaching center basement have sent shockwaves through the city and sparked outrage over alleged negligence by authorities. The incident occurred on Saturday evening in Old Rajender Nagar, where a coaching center, Rau’s IAS Study Circle, experienced severe waterlogging, leading to the deaths of Shreya Yadav, Tanya Soni, and Nivin Dalwin.
The incident has led to a wave of protests by students demanding accountability and justice. On Sunday, students held a candle march and protested at the Karol Bagh metro station, resulting in several detentions. The Delhi High Court is now considering a plea filed by an NGO, Hindu Rashtriya Pravasi Manch, seeking an independent inquiry into the incident to determine the responsibility of the MCD, Rau’s IAS Study Circle, and the Delhi government.
The owner and coordinator of Rau’s IAS Study Circle have been arrested and sent to 14-day judicial custody, facing charges of culpable homicide and other offenses. The coaching center has expressed its condolences for the loss of life and pledged its cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
The incident has prompted a flurry of political responses, with Congress calling for accountability and BJP demanding an inquiry. Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena expressed anguish over the deaths, deeming the incident “unfortunate and unacceptable.” Congress leader Pawan Khera launched a scathing attack on the AAP-led government, labeling the tragedy as man-made.
The tragedy has highlighted the precarious conditions faced by students preparing for competitive exams in Delhi. Many coaching centers operate in basements, raising concerns about safety and infrastructure. In response to the incident, AAP minister Gopal Rai announced that the MCD has issued instructions for immediate action against illegal coaching institutes operating in basements.
As the investigation continues, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for stricter regulations and improved safety measures for coaching centers in the capital. The deaths of these aspiring civil servants have sparked a call for justice and a demand for accountability from all those responsible for their tragic demise.
