Rajya Sabha Debates UPSC Aspirant Deaths in Delhi Coaching Centre; Chairman Criticizes Coaching Industry and Calls for Reform

Chairman Dhankhar highlighted the commercialization of coaching services, emphasizing that the industry has become more about profit than education.

Today, the Rajya Sabha held a discussion under Rule 176 concerning the tragic deaths of UPSC aspirants at a Delhi coaching centre, which were caused by water logging. Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, led the discussion with a critical examination of the coaching industry's practices.

Chairman Dhankhar highlighted the commercialization of coaching services, emphasizing that the industry has become more about profit than education. He criticized the excessive spending by coaching centres on newspaper advertisements, noting that these costs are passed on to students through exorbitant fees. "Coaching has turned into a lucrative business," Dhankhar remarked, pointing out that significant portions of student fees are diverted to advertising rather than educational improvements.

In a stark comparison, Dhankhar likened the coaching centres to "gas chambers," illustrating the detrimental effects of the current system on students. He called for increased awareness among youth about alternative employment and skill development opportunities to counter the negative impact of the coaching industry.

Dhankhar also voiced his frustration over the refusal of certain party floor leaders to attend discussions and meetings aimed at improving parliamentary proceedings. "The refusal to engage with the Chairman's requests is a troubling breach of parliamentary decorum," Dhankhar said, expressing disappointment over the lack of cooperation.

Earlier in the day, members Sudhanshu Trivedi and Swati Maliwal had requested a discussion under Rule 267 on the UPSC aspirant deaths. While Parliamentary Affairs Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju was ready to address the issue under Rule 267, Leader of Opposition Shri Mallikarjun Kharge and other opposition members opposed this approach. Chairman Dhankhar clarified that discussions under Rule 267 would only proceed with consensus among major parties.

The debate underscored the need for reform within the coaching industry and highlighted the importance of exploring diverse career opportunities for young people.