Delhi Police have arrested Hariram Bansal, the owner of the five-storey paying guest accommodation that collapsed in Satya Niketan, after the incident claimed seven lives. Bansal was traced and arrested from Bhiwadi in Rajasthan, close to the Haryana border. The building, known as Hostel Daze, was being used as a boys’ PG and accommodated several Delhi University students. The collapse took place on Sunday afternoon, prompting a large scale rescue operation.
Why Was Hariram Bansal Arrested?
Bansal was named as an accused after police registered a case over the building collapse. Investigators had formed several teams to locate him and had also issued a lookout notice. The case has been registered under Sections 105, 290 and 125(a) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The provisions relate to culpable homicide not amounting to murder, negligent conduct involving construction or repair of buildings, and actions that endanger life or personal safety.
Police are examining whether negligence or violations connected to the building’s construction and renovation contributed to the collapse.
What Happened At The Satya Niketan PG?
The five-storey structure came down at around 1:30 pm on Sunday while renovation work was reportedly being carried out on the ground floor. Officials are also examining work in the basement and whether excavation or water accumulation could have weakened the structure. The building was reportedly decades old. The collapse occurred in an area near Delhi University’s South Campus, where the PG was housing students.
The building collapse left seven people dead, while five others were rescued and shifted to hospitals. Of those injured, three are reportedly critical, one is stable and another has been discharged. Rescue teams searched through the debris following the collapse. The operation involved the Delhi Fire Service, NDRF, Delhi Police and other agencies.
What Action Has Delhi Government Taken?
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident and said strict action would be taken against those found responsible. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has also suspended five officials from its South Zone amid questions over building safety and enforcement. Authorities have begun inspecting other buildings in the locality that may pose safety risks or allegedly have unauthorised construction.
What Is The Probe Focusing On?
Investigators are examining the condition of the building and the renovation work being carried out before the collapse. Particular attention is being given to the basement, where excavation and water accumulation have emerged as areas of inquiry. Officials are also looking into how the property was being operated as a student PG and whether required construction and safety norms were followed.
The investigation will determine whether structural weaknesses, renovation activity, negligence or other factors played a role in the fatal collapse.
