New Delhi, September 7: The Delhi High Court has raised questions over the responsibilities of civic and educational authorities following the collapse of a multi-storey building in Satya Niketan that left several people dead and injured.A bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia described the incident as deeply unfortunate and observed that accountability for such a tragedy may extend beyond the owners of the building.
The court also questioned the role of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Delhi University (DU), particularly in the context of student accommodation in the national capital.
The building, located near Delhi University’s South Campus, housed a boys’ paying guest facility and reportedly collapsed while repair work was being carried out. Several people were trapped under the debris following the incident.
During the hearing, the court directed the authorities to intensify rescue efforts and make every possible attempt to save those who could still be trapped beneath the rubble.Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, Delhi government, Delhi Police and MCD, informed the court that rescue operations were being closely monitored and assured the bench that authorities were taking all necessary measures.
The court was hearing a Public Interest Litigation concerning the building collapse. It directed the concerned authorities to submit their respective responses to the petition within 10 days.The matter has been listed for further hearing on September 25.
The High Court’s observations also highlighted the shortage of affordable and adequate accommodation for students coming to Delhi from other parts of the country. With limited hostel capacity, many students depend on private PGs and hostels, raising concerns over the safety and regulatory oversight of such properties.
The court’s remarks could lead to greater scrutiny of building safety standards, municipal monitoring and the availability of student housing in the capital.Further proceedings are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the collapse and the responsibilities of the various authorities involved.
