In a recent development, a Delhi court has reserved its order on the bail pleas of four co-owners of a basement implicated in a tragic incident that led to the deaths of three UPSC aspirants.
The incident occurred on July 27 in the Old Rajender Nagar area, where the basement, rented out to a coaching centre, became the site of a fatal drowning incident.
The Rouse Avenue court heard arguments from both sides on Saturday. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) strongly opposed the bail applications, arguing that the accused were aware that the basement was designated for storage and examination purposes, not for coaching activities. They contended that the co-owners should have taken precautions to prevent such a disaster.
On the other hand, the defence counsel argued that the responsibility should lie with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). They maintained that the accused were unaware that such a tragedy could occur and suggested that the MCD should have taken action if there were any violations. The defence also highlighted that the accused were not present at the scene when the incident happened, further asserting their innocence.
During the hearing, Principal District and Sessions Judge Anju Bajaj Chandna questioned the accountability of the co-owners, given that the basement was not intended for coaching activities.
The defence responded by blaming dysfunctional stormwater drains for the incident, emphasising that the accused did not have the necessary knowledge to foresee such an outcome.
The CBI, however, argued that the lease deed clearly indicated that the basement was only to be used for storage, and the accused were well aware of this restriction.
The prosecution further argued that water logging was not an act of God but a result of human negligence, pointing out that other roads in the area were also affected. They expressed concern that if the accused were granted bail, they could potentially influence the ongoing investigation.
The case has drawn parallels to the Uphaar cinema tragedy, although the defence argued that the circumstances were different, as the coaching centre was being used for its intended purpose.
The CBI countered by emphasising the seriousness of the incident, noting that 25 students were present in the basement at the time, and a more severe tragedy could have unfolded.
The defense also pointed out that the case was transferred to the CBI on August 2, with an FIR lodged on August 6. They questioned the delay in investigating civic agency officials, suggesting that there has been insufficient progress in the case.
As the court deliberates on the bail pleas, it has directed the jail authorities to take one of the accused, Sarabjit Singh, to the hospital for the removal of a stent on August 19. Singh has also sought interim bail on health grounds.
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