A group of civil services aspirants has initiated an indefinite hunger strike in Delhi’s Old Rajinder Nagar area, demanding action following the tragic death of three students in the flooded basement of Rau’s IAS Study Circle. The protest, which has been ongoing for three days, has seen participation from over 400 students, despite heavy police presence.
The protest was sparked by the deaths of three Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) aspirants who were trapped in the basement of the coaching center on July 27 after heavy rains caused water from a flooded drain to rush into the building. The basement, which housed a library, quickly filled with water, leading to the fatalities.
Ten students have now escalated the protest by beginning a hunger strike, refusing to end it until their demands are met. These demands include a compensation of Rs 5 crore for the victims’ families, transparency about the FIR filed, the release of a committee report within a specified timeframe, and a ban on the use of basements for libraries and classes in Delhi.
“We had hoped the authorities would listen to us, but after four days, we realize this protest is being ignored,” said one of the students on hunger strike. “We are determined to see justice served.”
The Delhi Police have been engaging with the protesters daily, attempting to address their concerns. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) M Harsha Vardhan stated, “We are writing to the authorities regarding their problems and are in regular contact with the students.”
A delegation of the protesting students has also met with Lt Governor VK Saxena to present their demands. However, the outcome of this meeting remains uncertain as the protest continues.