By Abdul Bari Masoud
New Delhi, August 2: On Tuesday night, over 200 students began an indefinite hunger strike outside Rau’s IAS Study Circle, protesting for various demands including ₹1 crore compensation for each fatality’s family, transparency in the investigation, and resolution of drainage issues. They also called for a cap on fees at paying guest facilities and a safety audit of all coaching institutes.
Speaking with Radiance, K.M. Pandey mentioned that the Union Home Ministry has set up an inquiry committee, but the terms of reference remain unclear.
“We hoped that the Civil Services coaching institutes and administration would address our concerns. However, after five days, we realized this protest might be futile,” said Manik Trivedi.
The students alleged that the administration did not take the drowning mishap seriously and vowed to keep the issue in public memory until justice is served.
Since July 28, more than 400 civil services candidates have been protesting outside Rau’s IAS Study Circle under heavy police presence, demanding justice for the three students who died on July 27 after sewage water flooded the coaching center’s basement. The students insist on keeping their protest politically neutral while seeking improved facilities.
On July 31, the Delhi Police removed several “outsiders” from the Rajinder Nagar protest site, where hundreds had gathered to demand justice.
According to a police officer, over a dozen people were taken from the site as they were perceived as “outsiders” and not affiliated with any coaching institute.
A team of UPSC candidates met MCD Commissioner Ashwani Kumar on July 31 at the agency’s headquarters amid ongoing protests. The students alleged that some “outsiders” were attempting to derail their cause by displaying political placards and raising slogans.
In response, protesting students formed a 15-member coordination committee to decide the future course of action and communicate with authorities. “We have formed a 15-member committee, and its members will decide our next steps,” said Goutam, a civil services aspirant.
Some students also began a hunger strike on July 30 against the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to press their demands. Following the incident, a blame game ensued, with the ruling Aam Aadmi Party blaming the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi and the LG pointing fingers at the AAP, which controls both the local government and the civic body.
Delhi government minister Atishi called for legislation to regulate coaching institutes. However, student Anil Mehta asserted that the protest would continue until their demands are met.
