Delhi Court Directs CBI Probe into MCD Officials' Role in Coaching Centre Flooding Tragedy
A Delhi court has ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the involvement of Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) officials in the 2024 Old Rajendra Nagar coaching centre flooding incident. The court observed that the initial investigation failed to adequately examine possible dereliction of duty or corrupt practices that may have enabled the illegal use of the institute's basement.
Court Criticizes Probe for Ignoring Supervisory Roles
In its order, Principal Sessions Judge Dinesh Bhatt stated that the probe "did not examine the role of supervisory officials responsible for ensuring compliance with building norms." The court emphasized that merely blaming lower-level officials is insufficient, as it was the duty of supervising officers to ensure necessary compliance. The hearing has been scheduled for April 30.
Background of the Tragedy and Legal Petition
The flooding occurred on July 27, 2024, resulting in the drowning of three individuals, including Nevin, son of J Dalvin Suresh. Suresh filed a protest petition, alleging that the agency ignored facts that could establish criminal liability of several persons. The court noted submissions by counsel Abhijit Anand, highlighting that the building was in a low-lying area prone to waterlogging, with previous flooding incidents in the basement.
Judge Bhatt remarked, "It was difficult to believe that the entire hierarchy of officials in MCD would have no knowledge" of these issues.
High Court Directives and MCD's Compliance Failures
The court referenced Delhi High Court directives that ordered MCD to identify coaching centres not conforming with norms under the Master Plan of Delhi (MPD) 2021. The high court had instructed MCD to close down non-compliant centres and take appropriate action within 60 days, including cancelling registrations. Judge Bhatt found serious lapses in how these directions were followed, stating that officials' actions indicated "only a general view to circumvent or show a sham compliance."
Delayed Response to Complaints Before the Incident
The court examined a complaint filed prior to the tragedy. While the investigating officer claimed the complaint reached the concerned zone late, the court noted that a complaint dated June 26, 2024, and a reminder were received by the office of the deputy commissioner, MCD, on July 18. No action was taken until July 27, when the flooding occurred, underscoring systemic failures in municipal oversight.
