Death Trap Coaching Centers Face Judicial Scrutiny
The Supreme Court of India, in a landmark decision, has taken suo motu cognizance of the tragic demise of three civil service aspirants due to flooding in a Delhi coaching center. The court’s strong condemnation of coaching centers’ safety practices marks a significant turning point in ensuring the well-being of countless students who aspire to join the civil services.
Apex Court Rejects Appeal, Demands Accountability
In a stern rebuke, the Supreme Court rejected an appeal by the Coaching Centre Federation, which sought to challenge a Delhi High Court order regarding compliance with fire and safety norms. Justice Surya Kant expressed deep concern over the dire conditions in many coaching institutes, referring to them as “death chambers” that jeopardize the lives of young aspirants.
Notice Issued to Authorities for Safety Compliance
The court issued notices to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the Government of India, and the National Capital Territory of Delhi, demanding an explanation of the safety norms in place and the mechanisms to ensure their strict adherence. The court’s proactive stance aims to prevent future tragedies and hold authorities accountable for the safety of students.
Scope of Proceedings Expanded
Recognizing the gravity of the situation, the Supreme Court expanded the scope of the proceedings to include the states of Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, as a significant part of the National Capital Region (NCR) falls within their jurisdiction. The court emphasized the need for a comprehensive assessment of safety measures across the region.
Summary
The Supreme Court’s intervention in the issue of coaching center safety has sent a powerful message to institutions and authorities alike. The court’s condemnation of unsafe practices, coupled with its demand for accountability, signals a new era of heightened scrutiny and stricter enforcement of safety regulations in the coaching industry.
Key Learnings
| Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Supreme Court takes suo motu cognizance. | The court initiated proceedings on its own regarding the deaths of students in a Delhi coaching center. |
| Coaching centers criticized for safety. | The court strongly condemned coaching centers for their failure to comply with fire and safety norms. |
| Notice issued to authorities. | The court demanded an explanation from authorities regarding safety measures and their enforcement. |
| Scope of proceedings expanded. | The court included Uttar Pradesh and Haryana in the proceedings, acknowledging the NCR’s broader reach. |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
