The Delhi High Court, on Monday, admonished the Delhi government for its handling of the tragic collapse of a multi-story Paying Guest (PG) building in Satya Niketan, South West Delhi. The court urged the government to intensify its rescue operations to save students trapped under the debris. A Division Bench consisting of Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia voiced their distress over the incident, emphasizing the government’s inescapable responsibility.
Court’s Stern Message to the Government
The Bench expressed its dismay, stating, “You [government] can’t escape responsibility… 50 young students who are at the threshold of their lives… Majority of them are perhaps still lying under the debris, there can’t be anything more sad than this.” Highlighting the recurring nature of such tragedies in the nation’s capital, the court demanded to know the steps taken by the Delhi government to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Government’s Assurance and Social Media Concerns
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Central government, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and Delhi Police, assured the court that rescue operations were underway with full vigor. Mehta also raised concerns over the circulation of videos on social media depicting injured individuals trapped under the rubble, urging the court to restrict the dissemination of such sensitive content. The court acknowledged this request and agreed to consider the issue further.
Public Interest Litigation and Compensation
The court was reviewing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by Aniket Kumar Gupta, which sought a compensation of ₹1 crore for the victims’ families and demanded a structural audit of all PG accommodations and hostels. The court has asked for the responses from the Central government, MCD, and Delhi University, seeking clarity on the number of students residing in such PGs.
Need for Improved Student Housing Facilities
The Bench expressed its concerns over the inadequate hostel facilities provided to students, which force them into potentially unsafe PG accommodations. The court highlighted the reckless construction practices of PGs, often violating civil laws, as a key factor in such incidents. “PGs are not only very dangerous, but they are causing a threat to the life and security of the students,” the court remarked, pointing out the need for stricter regulations.
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Next Hearing and Legal Developments
The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on September 25. Reports indicate that the building collapse near Delhi University’s South Campus has resulted in at least six fatalities. An FIR has been lodged against the individual managing the PG accommodation.
The PIL highlights preliminary reports suggesting that unauthorized repair or construction work was underway at the time of the collapse. Legal questions have emerged about the structural integrity and compliance with building plans, alongside fire safety compliance and the adequacy of inspections by statutory authorities. The petitioner has called for an independent investigation into the collapse’s causes and a comprehensive audit of all student accommodations in the area.
