New Delhi: Delhi University, home to over 7 lakh students enrolled in various programs, is grappling with a significant shortage of hostel accommodation. The university’s facilities can only accommodate approximately 7,000 to 8,000 students, leaving many, particularly those from outside the national capital, in a challenging situation. As a result, these students are increasingly reliant on private paying guest (PG) accommodations in nearby areas, such as Satya Niketan.
The MCD suspended five officials with immediate effect on Monday, a day after the collapse. Delhi University Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh has asked college principals to review residential facilities for students and speed up ongoing hostel projects after the Satya Niketan collapse. The High Court has directed the authorities to examine the Satya Niketan building collapse in detail. The inquiry will look at whether the building had all the required permissions, identify officials responsible for any lapse and state what action has been taken or proposed against those found responsible. The court was hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed after the building collapse. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited Satya Niketan during the second and final day of the search and rescue operation. The tragedy killed seven people.
The authorities have been asked to submit separate replies within 10 days. The matter will be heard again on September 25. Hariram Bansal, the owner of the building, was arrested along with his wife and their son in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, after a multi-state search involving 10 police teams.
She said water had accumulated in the basement and this led to the collapse.
