Protests Intensify After Tragic Deaths at Delhi Coaching Centre

Civil services aspirants in Delhi continue protests following the deaths of three students in a coaching center's basement due to flooding. The students demand clarity over the casualties and improved safety measures. The Delhi High Court has transferred the investigation to the CBI.

Protests in Delhi by civil services aspirants have entered their seventh day following the deaths of three students at a coaching center in Old Rajinder Nagar. The tragic incident occurred on July 27, when heavy rain flooded the basement library of Rau's IAS Circle, leading to the fatalities.

A UPSC aspirant and protestor, Ashwini Kumar, demanded transparency from the institute regarding the actual number of casualties. 'We want clarity through the institute and CCTV footage regarding the actual number of casualties, the number of deaths, and those who were injured,' he told ANI.

Another student, Shivam, alleged political manipulation of the issue. 'Every party wants to politicize the situation. The Municipal Commissioner has not yet provided accountability regarding the drainage system, which remains unchanged. So, who will be held accountable for this?' he questioned.

The incident resulted in the deaths of Shreya Yadav from Uttar Pradesh, Tanya Soni from Telangana, and Nivin Dalwin from Kerala. Protests have since erupted, demanding improved safety measures in coaching centers. The Delhi High Court recently transferred the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Mayor Shelly Oberoi announced plans to set up four new public libraries in honor of the deceased students. 'Nothing can fulfill the loss that Delhi feels, but we are trying to improve public reading spaces for students,' she stated.

Seven people, including the coaching center's owner and coordinator, have been arrested under charges of culpable homicide. The Tis Hazari court has granted bail to Manuj Kathuria, accused of driving recklessly and causing the flooding.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has sealed the basements of several coaching centers, citing the use of basements for commercial purposes as a violation of building bye-laws, following the tragic deaths.