NHRC Takes Action on Delhi University Hostel Crisis Following Tragic Building Collapse
Urgent Measures Needed for Student Accommodation
New Delhi: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed deep concern over the lack of sufficient and affordable hostel accommodations for students at the University of Delhi (DU). The commission has instructed the Delhi Chief Secretary and the Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) to implement necessary actions to enhance hostel facilities.
This directive follows a tragic incident where a multi-storey building in South Delhi's Satya Niketan collapsed, resulting in seven fatalities and numerous injuries.
The building, known as 'Hostel Daze', was functioning as a boys' paying guest accommodation, raising fears that many students may be trapped under the rubble. Rescue operations are currently underway.
The NHRC's involvement stems from a complaint lodged in 2025 by The Network for Access to Justice and Multidisciplinary Outreach Foundation, which highlighted the stark contrast between the University of Delhi's 72,000 undergraduate students and the severely limited hostel availability.
Students arriving from various regions often find themselves relying on costly paying guest accommodations or private rentals due to the scarcity of university-hosted options, which imposes a financial strain on them and their families, potentially impacting their education and overall well-being.
The NHRC has categorized this issue as a human rights concern, emphasizing the necessity for adequate residential facilities to support access to higher education.
On September 30, 2025, the NHRC Bench, led by Priyank Kanoongo, requested an Action Taken Report (ATR) from the relevant authorities under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993.
When the required report was not submitted on time, the Commission issued a reminder and allowed additional time for compliance. Eventually, the University of Delhi's response was received and recorded.
In its reply, DU acknowledged the challenges faced by students from outside Delhi and recognized the need for infrastructure improvements, including the establishment of new hostel facilities.
However, the NHRC found that the information provided did not sufficiently address the core issues raised in the complaint.
The Commission noted that the university's response lacked a clear evaluation of current hostel capacity, the actual shortfall, and the additional capacity needed to accommodate students.
Furthermore, the response did not include adequate details regarding the requirements for new hostels, the financial obligations of the institutions involved, or a timeline for implementing improvements.
The NHRC has now mandated the Chief Secretary of Delhi and the UGC Chairman to collaborate with the University of Delhi and present a detailed, actionable report outlining specific measures to enhance student accommodation.
The action plan should extend beyond merely constructing new hostels; it must also consider upgrading and expanding existing facilities while assessing the feasibility of new accommodations.
Additionally, the NHRC has called for an evaluation of hostel needs at the individual college level to accurately identify and address accommodation gaps.
The Delhi government and UGC have been given four weeks to submit a consolidated and actionable report in coordination with the University of Delhi, with a deadline set for October 15.
"The proceedings initiated last year in response to concerns about inadequate hostel facilities for Delhi University students are now progressing towards a concrete and timely institutional response. The Commission's intervention aims to ensure that access to higher education is not limited to mere admission but is also supported by adequate and affordable housing for students," officials stated.