Delhi minister Atishi announced on Wednesday that the basements of 30 coaching centers have been sealed, and notices have been served to 200 more institutes running illegal classes and libraries in their basements. The centers sealed include prominent names like Drishti IAS, Vajiram, Sriram IAS, Sanskriti Academy, and IAS Gurukul.
Government Action and Accountability
Following the deaths of three civil services aspirants in a flooded coaching center basement, Atishi provided updates on the government’s actions. A junior engineer responsible for ensuring drain maintenance, preventing encroachments, and stopping illegal activities has been terminated from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi. Additionally, an assistant engineer tasked with ensuring proper drainage function and adherence to building regulations has been suspended.
Assurance of Further Action
Atishi assured the public that the government will take strict action against any officer, regardless of rank, found guilty in the ongoing inquiry. “The magisterial inquiry report will come in six days, and there will be strict action,” she said during a press briefing.
Long-term Solutions and New Regulations
As a long-term solution, Atishi mentioned that the Delhi government plans to introduce a law to regulate all coaching institutes in the national capital. A committee comprising officials and students from coaching hubs will be formed to create these regulations. The new law will cover infrastructure requirements, teacher qualifications, and fees regulation for coaching centers.
Background of the Incident
The tragic incident occurred on July 27, when three civil services aspirants died due to flooding in the basement of Rau’s IAS Study Circle in Old Rajinder Nagar, following heavy rain.
also read Tragic Loss: UPSC Aspirant Tanya Soni’s Dreams Cut Short by Delhi Flooding
Student Protests
In response to the tragedy, students began an indefinite hunger strike demanding action. Over 400 students have been protesting for the past three days amid heavy police deployment.
The Delhi government’s swift action and proposed regulations aim to prevent such tragedies and ensure the safety and well-being of students in coaching centers.
