The recent tragic flooding of the basement at Rau’s IAS Study Circle in Delhi’s Old Rajinder Nagar, which resulted in the deaths of three IAS aspirants, has sparked significant controversy surrounding coaching centres and their safety regulations. The incident has led to a crackdown on illegal basement classrooms, with Drishti IAS, a prominent coaching institution led by Vikas Divyakirti, also facing scrutiny. This has caused a shift in public perception, turning some of Divyakirti’s supporters into critics. Here’s a summary of the unfolding controversy.
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- Incident Overview: Heavy rains caused the basement of Rau’s IAS Study Circle in Old Rajinder Nagar to flood, resulting in the death of three IAS aspirants.
- Student Protests: The incident led to widespread protests from students demanding justice and stricter regulations for coaching centres.
- Crackdown on Coaching Centres: Authorities intensified their enforcement against illegal basement classrooms, affecting institutions like Drishti IAS.
- Drishti IAS Basement Sealed: The basement of Drishti IAS in Mukherjee Nagar was sealed, and five rooms were shut down due to illegal operations.
- Vikas Divyakirti’s Response: Divyakirti stated that he feels targeted and suggested that the controversy is used as a scapegoat by the administration and media.
- Media Criticism: Divyakirti criticized the media for sensationalizing his name to attract views and increasing criticism towards him.
- Regulation Issues: Divyakirti highlighted the lack of regulatory authority for coaching centres and the insufficient implementation of model guidelines by states.
- Past Legal Confusions: He referred to past incidents and legal ambiguities, including the fire incident last year and conflicting regulations about building norms and NOC requirements.
- High Court Involvement: The Delhi High Court’s intervention has led to some clarity on regulations, including the need for NOCs for every floor used for educational activities.
- Government’s Stance: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced new guidelines and emphasized the government’s commitment to student safety and regulation of coaching centres.
