Delhi building collapse: Death toll rises to 6

On Sunday, a five-story building in Delhi's Satya Niketan area collapsed, resulting in the tragic loss of six lives. Rescue teams are still working to clear debris and search for any remaining trapped individuals. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of buildings used as paying guest accommodations and the enforcement of construction and fire safety regulations in densely populated areas.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has ordered the immediate sealing of all illegal constructions with more than four floors. NSUI President Vinod Jakhar expressed grave concern over the situation, stating that most of the students rescued were unfortunately dead. He criticized the lack of timely medical and emergency response, suggesting that more lives could have been saved if necessary resources and officials had arrived promptly.

The MCD warned that strict action will be taken against officials found responsible for allowing such unsafe structures to be built. The culprits in the Satya Niketan building incident will face no mercy. All illegal constructions exceeding four floors will be sealed, and responsible officials will face immediate dismissal.

Delhi's Chief Minister has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the building collapse, directing the registration of an FIR against the building owner. The Delhi Police has registered the FIR under Section 107 of the Indian Penal Code against alleged owner Hariram and others, alleging that renovation work on the ground floor led to the building's collapse. Multiple teams have been formed to locate the alleged responsible persons.

Former Delhi Fire Services Director Atul Garg explained that the building was originally a ground-plus-one structure that was later converted into a three- or four-floor building. Many buildings in Delhi that were originally residential are now used commercially, contributing to the rise in safety concerns. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over the loss of lives in the building collapse, while prayer for the speedy recovery of injured citizens.