Delhi HC Demands CBI Response on Bail Petitions for Basement Coaching Centre Tragedy

The Delhi High Court has sought the Central Bureau of Investigation's response to bail petitions filed by four co-owners of a basement coaching centre. The centre was the site of a tragic drowning incident involving three IAS aspirants. Scheduled for further hearing on September 11, 2024.

The Delhi High Court on Thursday sought a response from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding bail petitions filed by four co-owners of a basement coaching centre in Old Rajinder Nagar, where three IAS aspirants tragically drowned on July 27, 2024. The trial court previously denied bail citing liability from the illegal use of the basement space.

Justice Dinesh Kumar Sharma issued a notice to the CBI, describing the case as 'very unfortunate' and stressing its gravity. The CBI has been directed to present concrete evidence, with the matter set for further hearing on September 11, 2024. The co-owners' bail application argues the trial court ignored the fact that they were not named in the FIR and had cooperated with the investigation voluntarily.

The plea also contends that vicarious liability should not apply in this case, arguing that criminal liability should only attach to the direct perpetrator. The defendants previously stated that the incident was due to heavy rain, an 'act of God,' and partially blamed the civic agency for inadequate sewer systems.

In the trial court, the CBI argued the basement was designated solely for storage and the accused were aware of the risks of operating a coaching centre there. Testimony from a Karol Bagh resident, who had voiced concerns about the illegal use of the basement for classrooms, was also considered by the court.

The court concluded that the accused were fully aware their illegal actions were endangering lives, directly connecting the basement's unlawful use to the tragic incident. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)