Old Rajinder Nagar Tragedy Sparks Major Reforms

Following the tragic deaths of three students due to severe waterlogging, MCD Commissioner Ashwani Kumar announced sweeping measures to address the crisis. Protests erupted, demanding accountability. Various officials were penalized, and political figures criticized the incident. MCD promises decisive action against illegal structures and encroachments.

Following the devastating deaths of three students at a coaching institute in Old Rajinder Nagar due to severe waterlogging, MCD Commissioner Ashwani Kumar has announced measures to address the crisis. The incident, which occurred on July 27, involved heavy rains that flooded the institute's basement, causing the deaths and fueling widespread protests and demands for accountability.

"This is a very sad incident. We will demolish all the encroachments in that area and recover the drainage system. Additionally, we are taking action against all illegal basements and coaching centers operating there. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has terminated a Junior Engineer, suspended an Assistant Engineer, and is seeking an explanation from the concerned Executive Engineer," Kumar stated. Amid ongoing protests, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor criticized the incident as "shameful," expressing deep concern over the impact on the students' families and the future of the country.

"The dreams of those youth have been shattered. Compensation should be provided, but what is most important is to ensure this doesn't happen again," Tharoor said. Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena also visited the IAS coaching institute, where he met with protesting students.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Sanjay Singh said that it is the responsibility of the Delhi Lieutenant Governor to take action against the officials regarding the flooding incident. Singh alleged that the BJP is conspiring with the LG and assured action in the matter.

"It is a very unfortunate incident. Many coaching centers are running libraries and classes in their basements illegally. Action will be taken against the officials involved. The officials are not working, and it is the responsibility of the LG of Delhi to take action against them," the AAP MP said. "I want to ask the BJP why they are punishing the people of Delhi. They took away the right to transfer officials and now, when it comes to taking action, they are conspiring with the LG of Delhi. We will expose them," he added.

(With inputs from agencies.)