The Delhi government plans to regulate coaching centers with a new law following a tragic incident in Old Rajendra Nagar. Minister Atishi announced the formation of a committee to draft the law, aiming to improve infrastructure, teacher qualifications, fee regulation, and advertising standards.
Introduction
INVC NEWS
New Delhi : The Delhi government is set to put a stop to the arbitrariness of coaching centers operating within the city. In a bold move following a recent tragedy, Cabinet Minister Atishi revealed plans to introduce stringent regulations to ensure the safety and quality of education provided by these centers. This comes in the wake of a heartbreaking incident where three civil service candidates lost their lives due to rainwater flooding the basement of a coaching center in Old Rajendra Nagar. Determined to prevent such incidents in the future, the government is gearing up to bring a comprehensive law that will address various issues plaguing the sector.
The Tragic Incident and Its Aftermath
Last week, the national capital was rocked by the unfortunate deaths of three aspiring civil servants. The incident, which occurred in Old Rajendra Nagar, highlighted the perilous conditions in which many coaching centers operate. The basement of the coaching center, filled with rainwater, became a death trap for the students, sparking outrage and calls for immediate action.
Government’s Response: Formation of a Committee
In response to the tragedy, Minister Atishi announced the formation of a committee tasked with drafting a new law to regulate coaching centers. This committee will include government officials, coaching center representatives, and candidates. The goal is to ensure that the new regulations are comprehensive and address all aspects of the coaching center operations.
Key Provisions of the Proposed Law
Infrastructure Standards
One of the main focuses of the new law will be to establish clear infrastructure standards for coaching centers. This includes ensuring that buildings are safe, well-maintained, and equipped with necessary emergency measures. The government aims to prevent any further loss of life due to infrastructural negligence.
Teacher Qualifications
Another critical area the law will address is the qualification of teachers. Coaching centers will be required to employ educators who meet specific qualifications and standards. This is to ensure that students receive high-quality education from competent and knowledgeable instructors.
Fee Regulation
Fee regulation is another significant aspect of the proposed law. The government plans to implement measures to control the fees charged by coaching centers. This will help prevent exorbitant charges and make education more accessible to a broader range of students.
Ban on Misleading Advertisements
The dissemination of misleading advertisements has been a long-standing issue in the coaching sector. The new law will include provisions to ban such practices, ensuring that students and parents are not deceived by false claims and promises.
Seeking Public Feedback
Minister Atishi emphasized the importance of public feedback in the drafting process. The government plans to engage with the public, especially students and parents, to gather their input and ensure that the new law addresses their concerns and needs.
MCD’s Crackdown on Violations
Sealing of Illegal Basements
In the wake of the Old Rajendra Nagar incident, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has taken swift action against coaching centers violating existing laws. Minister Atishi reported that the basements of 30 coaching centers in areas like Rajendra Nagar, Mukherjee Nagar, Laxmi Nagar, and Preet Vihar have been sealed.
Notices Issued to Violators
The MCD has also issued notices to 200 other coaching centers found to be in violation of regulations. This crackdown aims to ensure that all coaching centers comply with safety and operational standards to prevent further tragedies.
Magisterial Probe and Accountability
Investigation Report
Minister Atishi announced that a magisterial probe into the Old Rajendra Nagar incident is underway, with a report expected within the next six days. This investigation aims to uncover the details of the incident and identify any lapses in regulation and enforcement.
Holding Officers Accountable
If the probe finds any officers guilty of negligence or misconduct, strict action will be taken against them. The government is committed to holding accountable those responsible for ignoring complaints and allowing illegal operations to continue.
The Delhi government’s decisive action to regulate coaching centers marks a significant step towards ensuring the safety and quality of education for students in the capital. By introducing a comprehensive law addressing infrastructure, teacher qualifications, fee regulation, and advertising practices, the government aims to put a stop to the arbitrariness of coaching centers. The recent tragedy in Old Rajendra Nagar serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for such measures. With the magisterial probe underway and public feedback being sought, the government’s efforts reflect a commitment to creating a safer and more transparent educational environment. This initiative not only aims to prevent future incidents but also ensures that students receive the education they deserve in a secure and well-regulated setting.
