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Delhi High Court criticized the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the Delhi Police over the tragic drowning of three IAS aspirants in Old Rajinder Nagar. The court expressed its bewilderment at the incident, emphasizing that such mishaps have become disturbingly routine, with MCD officials showing apparent indifference.
Delhi High Court Court Slams Delhi Police for Arrest
The court particularly reprimanded the Delhi Police for arresting Manuj Kathuria, a 50-year-old businessman driving an SUV, who was merely passing by the rain-flooded street. The court deemed the arrest unfair, sarcastically remarking, “Mercifully, you have not challaned rainwater for entering into the basement, the way you arrested the SUV driver for driving his car there.” The judges underscored that the police should gain respect by apprehending actual culprits and protecting innocent citizens. They warned that arresting innocent individuals while letting the guilty go free constitutes a grave injustice.
Also Read: Delhi High Court Transfers Probe into Deaths of Three IAS Aspirants to CBI
Accountability and Poor Performance of Public Authorities
The court voiced serious concerns over the lack of accountability among public authorities. It pointed out that the officials are not fulfilling their duties effectively, leading to such tragic incidents. The bench, comprising acting Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, questioned the police about their investigation methods. They inquired if the police had interrogated the official who approved the building plan and whether the case diary noted the non-functional primary water drain.
Incident Details and Public Reaction
The incident occurred when Kathuria drove his SUV through a rain-flooded street in Old Rajinder Nagar, causing water to breach the gates of the three-storey Rau’s IAS Study Circle building, flooding its basement. The court highlighted that the drainage system in the area was nearly nonexistent, with roads serving as makeshift drains.
The court lambasted MCD officials for not informing the commissioner about the non-functioning storm water drains. They stressed that such negligence and indifference have become the norm, urging the authorities to take immediate action.
Delhi Police’s Apology and High Court’s Directives
In response, the Delhi Police apologized, attributing their actions to media reports. The High Court instructed the police to conduct a scientific investigation and advised them not to succumb to external pressures. The judges emphasized that accountability is crucial, regardless of one’s position of power, and demanded a thorough inquiry into the matter.
Also Read: Delhi News: UPSC Coaching Institutes Offer Aid Amid Student Protests Over Tragic Deaths
Community Outcry and Demand for Justice
The tragic deaths of the IAS aspirants have sparked a wave of outrage among the community and civil society groups. Many are demanding stricter enforcement of safety regulations and greater accountability from public officials. The court’s stern remarks have added momentum to calls for comprehensive reforms in urban management and infrastructure maintenance.
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