The Delhi High Court has strongly criticized the negligence that led to the tragic collapse of a building in Satya Niketan, which resulted in the loss of seven lives. On Wednesday, the Division Bench, comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia, addressed the incident, labeling it as a consequence of “callous and criminal conduct.” The judges referred to a report by The Indian Express highlighting the deaths of four students in the collapse.
“This is not just an ordinary mishap,” the Court emphasized. “These students had come to the capital with hopes and aspirations, originating from small towns. Their dreams have been destroyed by reckless and criminal actions.” The Court mentioned the ongoing issue of inadequate hostel facilities in Delhi, a concern that has persisted for over two decades as students flock to the city for higher education.
The High Court’s observations were made during the hearing of a public interest litigation (PIL) initiated by Aakarshak Danveer Rathi. The Court announced plans to further deliberate on the matter on September 25, alongside other related cases.
The collapse occurred on September 6 at a building near Delhi University’s South Campus, which served as a paying guest accommodation for boys. The incident transpired during repair work, claiming the lives of both students and workers.
The Court is presently addressing a PIL that seeks ₹1 crore in compensation for the families of the victims and demands a structural audit of all paying guest accommodations and hostels. Additionally, another PIL is under consideration, which calls for directives ensuring that every college affiliated with Delhi University provides hostel facilities for its students.
