SC’s Notice over Delhi Coaching Centre Tragedy

On 5th August, 2024, the Supreme Court directed the central and Delhi governments to address the deaths of three civil service aspirants who drowned in a coaching centre’s flooded basement, highlighting severe regulatory failures.

Key Points

Court Criticism: The Supreme Court criticized authorities for inadequate regulation of coaching centres, describing them as "death chambers" and accusing them of endangering students' lives.
Safety Norms Demanded: The court demanded clarification on existing rules for coaching centres and emphasized that proper safety measures, including ventilation and secure exits, are essential.
Fine Imposed: The Supreme Court fined the Coaching Institute Federation ₹1 lakh for contesting a Delhi High Court order that led to the closure of nearly 30 unsafe centres.
Incident Details: The victims drowned due to poor drainage and sewage backflow in the basement of a coaching centre operating without proper safety clearances.
High Court's Response: The Delhi High Court criticized police and municipal officials, transferred the investigation to the CBI, and questioned the Municipal Corporation’s handling of city infrastructure.
Regulatory Violations: Investigations revealed multiple violations by the coaching centre and building owners, including unauthorized basement usage and fraudulent fire safety certificates, leading to several arrests.