Tragic Building Collapse in Delhi: Court Holds Multiple Parties Accountable

Court's Response to the Satya Niketan Incident

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court expressed its sorrow on Monday regarding the recent building collapse in Satya Niketan, which resulted in the deaths of seven individuals and left many others injured, labeling the event as 'extremely unfortunate.'

The court emphasized that the responsibility for this disaster lies not only with the building's owners but also with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Delhi University (DU). The latter has been criticized for failing to provide sufficient housing options for outstation students, forcing them to seek private paying guest accommodations.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia urged authorities to intensify their rescue efforts to save lives.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, Delhi government, Delhi Police, and MCD, assured the court that all necessary measures are being implemented to rescue those trapped beneath the rubble.

Mehta stated that the government is closely monitoring the situation and requires some time to address the crisis. He committed to ensuring that all decisions made will prioritize the welfare of those affected, leaving no effort unmade.

The court was addressing a public interest litigation (PIL) concerning the building collapse and instructed the involved authorities to submit their responses to the petition within ten days, scheduling the next hearing for September 25.

The urgent plea was allowed to be heard on the same day it was presented, highlighting the court's prompt attention to the matter.

The building, which served as a boys' paying guest facility near the South Campus of Delhi University, collapsed on Sunday during ongoing repair work.