What Actions Are Being Taken Against Fire Officials for the Basement Library Deaths?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, Delhi's Lieutenant Governor has approved strict action against fire officials linked to the tragic basement deaths of three students. This incident has raised serious questions about safety regulations and oversight, leading to protests and calls for deeper investigations.
Key Takeaways
- Disciplinary action taken against fire officials.
- Officials accused of negligence and false reporting.
- Tragic deaths of three students in a basement library.
- Protests have erupted due to government negligence.
- Investigation underway by the Vigilance Department.
New Delhi, Nov 7 (NationPress) The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, V.K. Saxena, has given the green light for disciplinary measures against two senior officials from the fire department due to negligence and the concealment of critical facts concerning the tragic deaths of three students in a basement library at a coaching center in Old Rajendra Nagar last year, as reported by an official on Friday.
The officials in question, Divisional Officer Vedpal and Assistant Divisional Officer Udayveer Singh, are accused of having submitted a misleading report following an inspection of the basement on July 1, 2024, which led to the illegal approval of its use as a library.
This misleading report formed the foundation for a fire safety certificate issued on July 9, allowing the coaching center to operate the basement as a library, according to the official.
In the aftermath of the devastating incident that claimed the lives of three IAS aspirants in the basement, both officials were suspended, as stated by the official.
Disciplinary action has now commenced under Rules 14 and 18 of the CCS (Commission on Civil Aviation) Rules, 1965, as per an official statement.
The Lieutenant Governor has instructed the Vigilance Department to expedite the investigation within a specified timeframe.
On July 27, 2024, the three students tragically perished due to flooding in the unauthorized basement after heavy rains. The deceased included Shreya Yadav from Uttar Pradesh, Tanya Soni from Telangana, and Navin Delwin from Kerala.
This incident ignited protests over the alleged negligence of government bodies for permitting the illegal use of the basement as a library, despite it being officially designated solely for parking and storage.
Following the torrential rains, the three victims drowned while 17 others were trapped for several hours, revealing grave safety violations.
A petitioner has also approached the Delhi High Court to request that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) take over the investigation into this incident.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has also formed a committee to look into the situation, which includes high-ranking officials such as the Additional Secretary of Housing and Urban Affairs, Delhi's Principal Secretary for Home, Special Commissioner of Delhi Police, the Fire Advisor, and Joint Secretary of MHA.
Point of View
I emphasize that safety regulations are paramount in ensuring public safety. The negligence displayed in this tragic incident not only led to the loss of young lives but also highlights systemic failures that must be addressed. The actions taken by the Lieutenant Governor reflect a commitment to accountability, which is essential for rebuilding public trust.
NationPress
07/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the basement library incident?
Three students tragically died due to waterlogging in an illegal basement library during heavy rains.
Who are the officials facing action?
Divisional Officer Vedpal and Assistant Divisional Officer Udayveer Singh are facing disciplinary action.
What actions have been taken against the officials?
Disciplinary action has been initiated under CCS Rules 14 and 18 for negligence and false reporting.
What were the official reports about the basement?
The officials allegedly submitted a false report allowing the basement's use as a library, despite it being designated for parking and storage.
What is the current status of investigations?
The Vigilance Department has been directed to complete the investigation within a specified timeframe.
