Delhi Satya Niketan Building Collapse: High Court Says MCD, DU Also Responsible; Death Toll Rises to 7
The Delhi High Court has raised serious questions over the responsibility of multiple authorities following the deadly building collapse at Satya Niketan, which killed seven people. The court observed that responsibility could not rest only with the building owners and noted the roles of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Delhi University in regulating hostels and ensuring student safety.
Delhi High Court Seeks Responses From Authorities
During an urgent hearing on the Satya Niketan building collapse, a division bench of Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia said the tragedy raised concerns over inadequate hostel facilities, student safety and the regulation of paying guest accommodations and hostels.
The court sought separate responses from the Delhi government, MCD, Delhi University and Delhi Police within 10 days.
The observations came as the court considered a Public Interest Litigation concerning the building collapse and the broader safety concerns surrounding student accommodation in Delhi.
Death Toll Rises to Seven
The death toll from the Satya Niketan building collapse rose to seven on Monday, after two more injured people succumbed to their injuries.
According to the information available, 12 people were rescued following the collapse. Search and rescue operations continued into the second day before being declared complete.
The tragedy has triggered scrutiny of the building's ownership, safety standards and the role of agencies responsible for monitoring such properties.
Building Owner Hariram Gupta Arrested
The building owner, identified as Hariram Gupta, was arrested in Rajasthan on Monday, according to the reported updates.
Delhi Police had registered an FIR against the owner and were preparing to issue a Look Out Circular (LOC). The investigation is focused on establishing the circumstances that led to the collapse and fixing responsibility for the deaths.
MCD Suspends Senior Officials
Following the tragedy, the MCD suspended South Zone Deputy Commissioner Rakesh Kumar and four engineers, according to Delhi Mayor Pravesh Wahi.
The action has added to scrutiny of the municipal authorities and their role in monitoring construction, structural safety and compliance in the area.
The MCD also ordered the demolition of an adjacent building that was considered a potential threat to residents, pedestrians and nearby structures. The owner of property number 13 was reportedly given three days to demolish the building.
Delhi Government Orders Magisterial Probe
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited Satya Niketan on Monday to oversee the second day of search and rescue operations.
The Delhi government has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident and an FIR has been registered against the building owner.
The Chief Minister also met injured victims at AIIMS and assured that strict action would be taken against those found responsible.
Broader Questions Over Hostel Safety
The High Court's observations have shifted attention beyond the collapsed structure itself, raising broader questions about the safety of hostels and student accommodation in Delhi.
The court's decision to seek responses from the Delhi government, MCD, Delhi University and Delhi Police indicates that the authorities' role in regulating hostels and paying guest facilities will also come under scrutiny.
The investigation and court proceedings are expected to establish the specific responsibilities of the building owner and the concerned government agencies.