Delhi Coaching Centre Flooding: Protesters Resort To Hunger Strike

Protesters in New Delhi have initiated an indefinite hunger strike following the tragic deaths of three UPSC aspirants. These students drowned in a flooded basement library at a coaching centre. The protest began on Tuesday, with demonstrators demanding immediate action and accountability from various authorities.

Earlier in the day, students informed OneIndia that they would commence a hunger strike if key officials did not meet them by 3 PM. These officials include the local councillor, MLA, MP, chairman of the MCD, Rau Institute authorities, and a committee member formed by the Ministry for this case.

Demands for Compensation and Accountability

The UPSC aspirants have written to Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, seeking his intervention in the incident. They demand that each family of the deceased receive ₹1 crore in compensation from RAU's IAS Study Circle, the Delhi Government, MCD, and the Central Government.

Additionally, they call for strict action against MCD officials, electricity board officials, and RAU's IAS authorities responsible for the tragedy. They also seek a ban on all coaching centres and libraries operating in basement areas across Delhi.
Safety Measures and Regulatory Compliance

The students insist on setting up two committees chaired by the Ministry of Home Affairs. One committee should ensure safety and regulatory compliance of educational institutions. The other should oversee student accommodation rents with at least three student representatives included.

They also demand rules to make coaching fees affordable for students from all economic backgrounds. Implementing strict safety measures to protect students in educational areas is another key demand.
Periodic Inspections and Infrastructure Improvements

The protesters call for periodic inspections of libraries, coaching institutes, gyms, PG accommodations, and rental rooms in key areas like Karol Bagh and Old Rajendra Nagar. This is to ensure these establishments meet safety standards.

They also want a robust drainage system developed to prevent waterlogging issues. Regular checks on the electricity supply system are necessary to remove open wires and organise electrical infrastructure properly for safety.
Judicial Inquiry and Housing Reforms

The students demand an independent judicial inquiry into the incident conducted by a neutral officer under the Chief Justice of India. They also seek measures to cut arbitrary rent increases and brokerage fees by 50 per cent to ensure fair housing for students.

Removing brokers from the rental process is another demand aimed at simplifying student accommodation. Improving infrastructure in Old Rajendra Nagar, Mukherjee Nagar, Karol Bagh, and Patel Nagar is also crucial according to the protesters.
Regulation of Coaching Institutes

The final demands include enforcing strict regulation and oversight of coaching institutes to prevent exploitation and ensure quality education. Addressing a recent suicide due to rent increase by Heena Bhatia is also highlighted as an urgent issue requiring appropriate action.

The protesters' list of demands reflects their need for immediate compensation, accountability from authorities, improved safety measures, regulatory compliance in educational institutions, fair housing practices, infrastructure improvements, and better regulation of coaching institutes.