Swift Action Taken Amid Backlash Over Delhi Coaching Centre Deaths

New Delhi, July 29, 2024 – In response to the tragic deaths of three IAS aspirants in a coaching centre in Old Rajinder Nagar, Delhi Police and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) have launched a series of urgent measures. The deaths, attributed to waterlogging and structural failures, have sparked widespread criticism and student protests.

Key Actions:

Arrests Made: Delhi Police have arrested five more individuals, including an SUV driver whose actions exacerbated the flooding. This brings the total arrests to seven, including the building and basement owners.
Anti-Encroachment Drive: The MCD has initiated a drive to remove illegal structures obstructing storm drains. Bulldozers were deployed near Rau’s IAS Study Circle, the site of the incident.
Suspensions and Terminations: The MCD has suspended an assistant engineer and terminated a junior engineer from the Karol Bagh Zone maintenance department.
Political Reactions: The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the opposition BJP have traded blame. AAP accused bureaucrats of negligence, while BJP demanded the resignation of the Delhi government and called for an inquiry.
Student Protests: The Lieutenant Governor met with protesting students and assured them of accountability. Meanwhile, BJP workers protested outside the AAP office, leading to police intervention.