Home ministry to form panel to look into coaching center student deaths

New Delhi: In response to the tragic incident at Rau's IAS Study Circle in Old Rajendra Nagar, where three UPSC aspirants lost their lives, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has initiated a thorough investigation. The incident occurred on Saturday evening when heavy rains led to flooding in the basement library of the coaching centre.

Objective of the investigation

The newly formed committee will focus on identifying those responsible for the tragedy and recommending measures and policy changes to prevent such incidents in the future. The report is expected to be submitted within 30 days.

Who are empannelled on the committe?

The investigation panel comprises high-ranking officials, including the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Urban Affairs, the Principal Secretary (Home) of the Delhi Government, a Special Commissioner of Police from Delhi Police, a Fire Advisor, and the Joint Secretary of the MHA, who will serve as the convener.

What will the panel do?

The panel's primary objectives are to investigate the causes leading to the flooding, establish accountability, and propose immediate actions and long-term policy changes to ensure the safety of students in educational institutions across the city.

What actually happened on the day of mishap?

Heavy rains in Delhi caused severe flooding at a coaching centre in Rajendra Nagar, trapping several students in the basement. Rescue teams have recovered the body of one student, while the search for others continues. The Delhi Fire Department and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are actively involved in the rescue and relief operations, but the lack of lighting in the basement is complicating efforts.

Rescue operations continued

Senior Delhi police officials are present at the site due to the gravity of the situation. Three students remain missing, and five fire trucks have been deployed to assist in the rescue operations. The basement is filled with water, making the rescue efforts particularly challenging.

Owner absconding

The owner of the coaching centre is currently absconding, adding to the urgency of the situation. Authorities are intensifying their efforts to locate and question the owner regarding the safety measures in place at the facility.

Minister Atishi orders investigation

Delhi government minister Atishi announced the incident on social media, calling for a magisterial inquiry. She emphasized accountability, stating, "A tragic incident due to heavy rain in Delhi has been reported. Water has filled the basement of a coaching institute in Rajendra Nagar. The Delhi Fire Department and NDRF are on-site. A magisterial inquiry has been ordered to determine how this happened. Those responsible will not be spared."

Immediate inquiry initiated

Atishi has directed the Chief Secretary to initiate an immediate inquiry into the incident. The tragedy has resulted in the death of one student, and a comprehensive report on the incident is expected within 24 hours. The inquiry aims to uncover the circumstances leading to the flooding and hold those responsible accountable.