NEW DELHI: Students in West Delhi’s Old Rajender Nagar are protesting vehemently against the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and a renowned IAS coaching institute following the tragic deaths of three UPSC aspirants. The incident occurred after heavy rains on Saturday night led to severe flooding in the basement library of Rau’s IAS Centre, highlighting glaring safety lapses and negligence.
The flooding incident resulted in the deaths of three civil services aspirants—two women and one man—when the library’s biometric entry and exit system reportedly failed. The students, trapped in the basement, could not escape the rapidly rising waters. The victims have been identified as Shreya Yadav from Uttar Pradesh, Tanya Soni from Telangana, and Nivin Dalwin from Kerala.
Demands for Accountability and Safety Measures
In response to this disaster, students are demanding a thorough investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the formation of a Supreme Court committee to probe the incident. They are also seeking substantial compensation for the victims’ families, with many calling for Rs 5 crore for each family. The protests underscore the urgent need for stricter safety regulations and enforcement in coaching centers across Delhi.
Protesters have expressed their outrage over the lack of basic safety measures, such as proper wiring, drainage systems, and emergency exits. They have also highlighted the absence of CCTV cameras and the poor overall infrastructure of many coaching centers in the area. The MCD has since sealed the basements of several coaching centers amid regulatory crackdowns, and disciplinary actions have been taken against local officials.
Government and response from Officials
Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena visited the protest site and engaged with the students. He expressed deep sorrow over the incident and called for a detailed report on the tragedy. The Delhi police have arrested seven individuals, including the owners and coordinators of the coaching center, on charges of culpable homicide and other offenses. The incident has prompted broader scrutiny of the regulatory compliance of educational institutions operating in basement premises.
Broader Implications and protests to continue
This tragic event has spurred a larger movement among UPSC aspirants and the student community, drawing attention to the systemic issues within the coaching industry in Delhi. The protests have also revived calls for additional exam attempts for UPSC aspirants impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the broader challenges faced by students preparing for competitive exams in India.
The student protests in Delhi highlight a critical need for enhanced safety protocols, better infrastructure, and stringent regulatory oversight in educational institutions to prevent such tragedies in the future. As the investigation continues, the affected families and student community await justice and substantial reforms in the coaching industry.
