New Delhi: In a significant development following the tragic fire at Rau’s Coaching Centre in Old Rajinder Nagar that claimed three students’ lives in July 2024, Delhi Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena has approved disciplinary proceedings against two senior officers of the Delhi Fire Service. The officials are accused of negligence, procedural lapses, and concealing crucial facts related to fire safety compliance.
Two Senior Fire Officers Under Scanner
Action has been sanctioned against Divisional Officer Ved Pal and Assistant Divisional Officer Uday Veer Singh, both Group A officers of the Delhi Fire Department. The inquiry found that the officials failed to take adequate preventive measures, ignored safety norms during inspections, and submitted incomplete or misleading reports regarding the centre’s fire safety status.
LG Approves Action Under CCS (CCA) Rules
The LG’s office has given its nod to proceed under Rule 14 read with Rule 18 of the Central Civil Services (Classification, Control & Appeal) Rules, 1965. These provisions allow for strict disciplinary action, including dismissal from service, in cases of gross misconduct.
Vigilance Directorate to Oversee the Process
LG Saxena has also directed the Directorate of Vigilance to ensure that the disciplinary proceedings are completed within the prescribed timeframe. Officials have been instructed to maintain accountability and transparency throughout the inquiry.
Background: The July 2024 Fire Incident
The fatal incident took place in July 2024, when a fire broke out in the basement of Rau’s Coaching Centre in Old Rajinder Nagar — an area known as a hub for UPSC aspirants. The blaze led to the death of three students due to suffocation, sparking outrage among students and parents and raising serious questions about safety standards in Delhi’s coaching institutions.
Accountability and Administrative Response
Following a detailed inquiry conducted by the District Magistrate, the two fire safety officers were initially suspended. With the LG’s latest approval, the case now moves into the disciplinary phase, which could lead to severe penalties, including termination.
The LG’s decision is being viewed as a strong message of accountability, aimed at preventing such tragedies in the future and reinforcing the importance of strict compliance with fire safety norms across educational and coaching institutions in the capital.
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