Tragedy in Delhi: Three Students Drown in Coaching Centre Basement

The drowning of three students in a flooded basement of an exam coaching centre in Delhi has ignited widespread anger and protests. The incident occurred on Saturday night when the students, all in their twenties, became trapped while studying in the basement, which was being used illegally as a library and reading room. Reports indicate that a gate collapsed, allowing water from the road to surge into the basement, leading to the tragic deaths. Eyewitness accounts suggest that a malfunctioning biometric system may have hindered the students' escape as water-logging overwhelmed the area. The coaching institute, Rau's IAS Study Circle, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and stated its commitment to cooperating with the ongoing investigation. Authorities revealed that the centre was only permitted to use the basement for storage and parking, raising questions about regulatory compliance. The incident has sparked a political confrontation between Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led federal government. AAP leaders have accused the lieutenant governor, appointed by the federal government, of failing to act against negligent officials, while also alleging bureaucratic inaction. The situation has escalated to parliamentary discussions, where opposition lawmakers demanded accountability and justice for the victims. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring safety regulations are enforced to prevent such tragedies in the future, highlighting the urgent need for accountability in the management of educational facilities.