The Delhi High Court has instructed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to initiate a high-level inquiry into the recent building collapse in Satya Niketan. The court described the incident as “unfortunate”. This directive underscores the need for accountability and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse.
The court directed that the inquiry specifically examine whether the collapsed building had been constructed with valid and requisite permissions, identify officials responsible for any lapse or failure on the part of the authorities, and detail the action proposed or taken against those found responsible. The court also directed the MCD to carry out a comprehensive inspection, within one week, of all PG accommodations falling under its jurisdiction. The court observed that had the authorities remained vigilant and discharged the statutory duties cast upon them with due diligence, such an unfortunate incident could, prima facie, have been avoided. Besides these directions, the court asked the MCD to file an affidavit stating whether there are any statutory or executive regulations governing PG accommodations and hotels in Delhi. Delhi University has also been directed to file an affidavit indicating how many outstation students are admitted to its affiliated colleges and how many hostels are being run by the varsity or the government. During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, Delhi Police, Delhi government and MCD, submitted that the authorities would not leave any stone unturned in the rescue operations.
