The Delhi government has ordered a comprehensive safety inspection of all 923 registered coaching centres in the capital, following a tragic fire at a coaching centre in Lucknow that claimed several lives. The order, issued by the Directorate of Education (DoE), mandates immediate inspections to ensure compliance with fire safety norms and other regulations.
Details of the Inspection Order
According to the DoE order dated June 24, 2026, all district deputy directors of education have been directed to form teams to inspect coaching centres within their jurisdictions. The inspections will cover fire safety equipment, emergency exits, electrical wiring, and building structural safety. The teams must submit their reports within 15 days.
The order specifically cites the Lucknow tragedy, where a fire broke out in a coaching centre, leading to multiple fatalities and injuries. The incident highlighted the lax safety standards in many such institutions across the country.
Scope and Timeline
The inspection will cover all 923 coaching centres registered with the Delhi government. The DoE has warned that any centre found violating safety norms will face strict action, including immediate closure. The government has also asked coaching centres to display their registration certificates and safety compliance documents prominently.
Education Minister Atishi stated, "The safety of students is our top priority. We will not tolerate any negligence that puts young lives at risk. This inspection drive is a proactive step to prevent any such tragedy in Delhi."
Background of the Lucknow Fire
The Lucknow fire, which occurred on June 20, 2026, at a coaching centre in the Hazratganj area, killed at least 12 students and injured over 20 others. Preliminary investigations revealed that the centre lacked proper fire exits and had inadequate fire extinguishers. The incident sparked nationwide outrage and calls for stricter regulation of coaching centres.
In response, several state governments have announced similar inspection drives. The Delhi government's move is part of a broader effort to enforce safety standards in educational institutions.
Impact on Coaching Centres
Coaching centre owners in Delhi have expressed mixed reactions. Some welcomed the move, saying it would help improve safety standards. Others expressed concerns about the short timeline for compliance. The Delhi Coaching Centre Association has requested a 30-day deadline to complete necessary upgrades.
However, the government has remained firm, stating that safety cannot be compromised. The DoE has also announced that unregistered coaching centres operating illegally will be identified and sealed.
This inspection drive is expected to set a precedent for other states to follow, ensuring that coaching centres across India adhere to basic safety norms.
