Coaching centre deaths: SC directs Delhi, Haryana, and UP to support committee in preventing incidents similar to Old Rajendra Nagar

New Delhi, September 20: The Supreme Court on Friday directed the governments of Delhi, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh to cooperate with the committee formed to prevent incidents similar to the one in Old Rajendra Nagar and to submit reports on the measures taken to avoid such occurrences.

A bench comprising Justices Surya Kant and Ujjal Bhuyan instructed the three states to support the committee to implement uniform safety initiatives across the National Capital Region.

This direction came after Attorney General R. Venkatramani informed the Supreme Court about the formation of a committee to prevent tragedies like the one at a coaching institute in Old Rajendra Nagar, Delhi. The court also noted that similar issues could arise in other parts of the country and suggested that the focus may be expanded nationwide.

Following the recent tragedy in Old Rajendra Nagar, the Supreme Court had earlier taken suo motu cognizance of the safety issues in coaching centres, remarking that these institutions have become "death chambers," putting the lives of young aspirants at risk.

The court emphasized that these unfortunate incidents, which have led to the loss of young lives, are a wake-up call for everyone.

The court further proposed that coaching centres should operate online until they fully comply with the fire and safety standards outlined in the Master Plan of Delhi, 2021, and the Unified Building Bye-Laws of Delhi, 2016. It also recommended that safety norms should include proper ventilation, emergency exits, and sufficient air and light.

Additionally, the court called on the Centre, via the Ministry of Urban Affairs, and the Delhi government to clarify the safety norms in place and detail any effective mechanisms introduced to ensure compliance. Notices were issued to the central and Delhi governments regarding the safety regulations governing coaching institutes.