A tragic incident unfolded in Delhi’s Old Rajendra Nagar on Saturday, claiming the lives of three students who drowned in the flooded basement of Rau’s IAS Study Circle coaching center. The basement, which was being used as a library in violation of regulations, was overwhelmed by a powerful surge of water due to heavy rainfall. A video that surfaced online shows the water entering the basement, which appeared to be caused by the collapse of the institute’s gate under the pressure of the floodwater. This tragic event sparked widespread outrage and prompted immediate action from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).
In response to the incident, the MCD initiated a crackdown on properties violating building bylaws by sealing the basements of 13 civil services institutes, including the one where the drowning occurred. Additional Commissioner MCD, Tariq Thomas, stated that the action was taken swiftly, with three basements already closed and further action planned in the coming days. The government has also ordered an inquiry into the incident.
The tragic deaths of the three UPSC aspirants led to protests in Old Rajendra Nagar, with students demanding justice and preventive measures to avoid similar tragedies in the future. The protesters, hailing from various coaching centers, presented a list of five demands. They insisted on strict action against government officials responsible for the disaster and urged immediate action to prevent further waterlogging and electrical hazards in the area.
Furthermore, students called for harsh penalties for coaching centers and property owners operating basements as libraries or classrooms. They also advocated for the introduction of a rent regulation bill or a code to manage excessive rent and brokerage fees. To guard against future incidents, students demanded mandatory insurance coverage for coaching centers and libraries. They also requested the establishment of a grievance redressal mechanism to address any issues at coaching sites. The incident highlights the dangers of operating coaching centers in basements, especially during the monsoon season, and underscores the need for stringent regulations to ensure the safety of students. The MCD’s swift action and the students’ demands for accountability signal a commitment to preventing similar tragedies in the future.
