28-Jan-2025, 02:21 PM
Abhishek Gupta, the CEO of Rau’s IAS Study Circle, is currently awaiting a hearing from the Delhi High Court regarding his plea to waive the financial condition imposed on his interim bail. This condition requires him to deposit ₹2.5 crore with the Red Cross Society, following the tragic drowning of three UPSC aspirants in the basement of his coaching institute in July 2024.
The incident occurred during heavy rainfall when water flooded the basement library where students were studying. The deceased were identified as Shreya Yadav, Tanya Soni, and Nevin Dalvin, all of whom died due to asphyxia caused by drowning. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has accused Gupta and others of knowingly violating safety regulations by using the basement for commercial purposes despite its designation for parking only. This has raised serious concerns about negligence and adherence to safety standards within coaching institutes in Delhi.
Gupta was initially granted interim bail by a Rouse Avenue court in September 2024, which noted that he had already spent 54 days in custody and that further incarceration would not serve any purpose. The court acknowledged the failure of civic authorities in regulating such establishments adequately. However, as a condition for his bail, Gupta was required to make the substantial financial deposit, aimed at providing support for victims’ families and addressing safety concerns in educational institutions.
As of January 28, 2025, Gupta’s plea to waive this financial condition is scheduled for hearing. His legal representatives are arguing that the financial burden is excessive and unjust, especially considering the ongoing investigation and the circumstances surrounding the tragic event. The outcome of this hearing could significantly impact Gupta’s legal standing and his ability to continue managing his coaching institute amid ongoing scrutiny from regulatory bodies.
The case has also prompted broader discussions about safety regulations for coaching centers in Delhi. The Delhi High Court has suggested forming a committee to oversee compliance with safety norms to prevent similar tragedies in the future. This includes ensuring that coaching centers are not operated in basements without appropriate approvals from municipal authorities. As the hearing approaches, stakeholders are closely watching how the court will address both Gupta’s plea and the larger implications for educational institutions operating under potentially hazardous conditions.
