Should Rs 10 lakh be given as ex gratia to the families of those killed in building collapses?
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Synopsis
In response to tragic building collapses in Delhi, the Congress urges urgent compensation for victims' families and accountability for negligence. The situation highlights ongoing issues with unauthorized construction and government inaction.
Key Takeaways
- Delhi Congress demands Rs 10 lakh compensation per victim.
- Calls for accountability among government officials.
- Highlighting the issue of unauthorized construction in Delhi.
- Emphasis on the need for law enforcement against negligence.
- Previous building collapses raise concerns over safety regulations.
New Delhi, July 12 (NationPress) The Delhi Congress demanded Rs 10 lakh each as ex gratia for the five individuals who lost their lives in two recent building collapses in Seelampur and Azad Market. This call comes in light of the party's concerns regarding officials who are allegedly protecting unauthorized constructions.
Devender Yadav, President of the Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee, stressed the need for legal action against those held accountable for these tragic deaths, advocating for a thorough investigation into the matter.
In the early hours of Saturday, four lives were claimed by the collapse of a two-and-a-half-storey building in Janata Mazdoor Colony, Seelampur, while another casualty occurred due to a dilapidated structure collapsing in Azad Market linked to tunneling activities.
Yadav criticized Chief Minister Rekha Gupta for her absence at the incident site, deeming it indicative of her indifference to the welfare of Delhi's residents.
He urged the government to compensate the families of the deceased with Rs 10 lakh each and Rs 2 lakh for those injured.
Allegations were raised against the authorities for failing to take action after a four-storey building collapse in Mustafabad that resulted in 11 deaths on April 19.
Yadav attributed the recurrent building collapses in Delhi's crowded neighborhoods to the negligence of the current BJP-led government and the corruption of the prior Aam Aadmi Party administration.
He articulated the severity of the situation by questioning the structural integrity of buildings that collapse so easily, suggesting the influence of the land mafia.
According to Yadav, both the BJP and AAP have jeopardized public safety through their collaboration with builders.
He pointed out that the Municipal Corporation of Delhi identifies hazardous buildings annually before the monsoon but often refrains from demolishing them unless owners pay bribes.
Yadav highlighted that dangerous structures exist throughout Paharganj, Chandni Chowk, and across Delhi, yet no significant action is taken against them.
He noted that unauthorized constructions have proliferated in Seelampur and Mustafabad over the last 11 years with the backing of both AAP and BJP legislators, creating an environment of unchecked corruption.
In January, a five-storey building under construction in Burari collapsed, leading to five deaths and injuring 12. In April, another four-storey building collapse in Mustafabad had similarly tragic consequences, resulting in 11 fatalities.
Point of View
I must emphasize that the safety of residents should be the top priority for any governing body. The recent building collapses highlight systemic failures that require immediate attention. We stand with the victims and advocate for accountability and comprehensive reforms to prevent such tragedies in the future.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the compensation amount being proposed?
The Delhi Congress proposes Rs 10 lakh as ex gratia for each of the five deceased individuals' families.
What prompted the demand for compensation?
The demand arose following two separate building collapses in Seelampur and Azad Market, resulting in the loss of five lives.
Who is responsible for the building collapses?
The Delhi Congress has accused lax officials and the land mafia for the proliferation of unauthorized buildings leading to these tragedies.
What actions are being called for by the Congress?
They are calling for legal action against those responsible and a high-level investigation into the incidents.
Are there other similar incidents in Delhi?
Yes, there have been previous incidents, including a collapse in Mustafabad in April that resulted in 11 deaths.
