- Flooding at Rau’s IAS Study Circle in Old Rajinder Nagar results in three student deaths.
- MCD forms a high-level committee; arrests made for culpable homicide.
- Protests erupt as BJP calls for accountability and compensation for victims’ families.
The catastrophic flooding at Rau’s IAS Study Circle in Old Rajinder Nagar, Delhi, caused by a burst drain, has resulted in the tragic deaths of three civil services aspirants.
Political reactions have been intense, with the BJP demanding the resignation of Delhi Water Minister Atishi and labeling the incident as “murder” due to alleged government negligence.
Delhi Coaching Centre Flooding: Legal Actions and Political Repercussions
Following the deadly flooding at Rau’s IAS Study Circle, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi has announced the creation of a high-level committee to examine the incident and ensure strict enforcement of building norms. Encroachments over storm drains, which were supposed to manage excess rainwater, were identified as a significant factor contributing to the disaster.
The Delhi Police have detained the coordinator of the coaching centre and the building’s owner on charges including culpable homicide. Preliminary investigations revealed that the basement, which was flooded, was being used as a library without proper authorization for such use. This unauthorized use of the basement exacerbated the situation, trapping the students inside.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has been vocal in its criticism of the AAP-led Delhi government, accusing it of negligence and corruption. BJP leaders have demanded the resignation of Delhi Water Minister Atishi and significant compensation for the victims’ families. They also highlighted that complaints about the clogged drains had been ignored by local authorities.
Public outrage has been palpable, with students protesting near the Karol Bagh metro station to demand justice for the deceased. The Delhi Fire Services faced significant challenges during the rescue operations due to the high water levels and inadequate equipment. This tragedy has underscored the urgent need for better urban infrastructure and stricter enforcement of safety regulations.
This incident has brought to light critical issues in urban planning and the enforcement of safety regulations. Immediate and comprehensive action is essential to prevent such tragedies in the future and ensure the safety of all residents.
“Negligence in urban planning and failure to enforce building regulations can turn a natural calamity into a man-made disaster.”