Delhi Police have issued a lookout notice against Hariram Bansal, the owner of the boys’ paying guest accommodation whose multi-storey building collapsed in south-west Delhi’s Satya Niketan area, killing six people.
Police have a copy of Bansal’s passport and have formed multiple teams to trace him. Raids are being conducted at several locations as the search for the building owner continues. Police have been looking for Bansal since Sunday, following the collapse.
The building near Delhi University’s South Campus came down at around 1.30 pm on Sunday while repair and renovation work was underway. At least 11 people have been rescued from the debris, while the death toll has risen to six.
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FIR Registered Against Building Owner And Others
An FIR has been registered at the South Campus police station against Hariram Bansal and others. The charges include culpable homicide, negligence in the upkeep of a structure and endangering safety.
Police have formed teams to trace Bansal and others allegedly involved in the incident. Rescue operations continued through the night, with multiple agencies working at the site.
The Delhi Police, Delhi Fire Service, National Disaster Response Force, Delhi Disaster Management Authority, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, CATS and Civil Defence were involved in the rescue operation.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Amit Goel said one more person was rescued during the night but was brought dead, taking the death toll to six.
MCD Seals Adjoining Building
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has sealed an adjoining building housing a women’s PG following the collapse. It has also ordered the immediate sealing of all illegal constructions exceeding four floors.
A magisterial inquiry has been ordered into the incident, while police continue their investigation into the collapse and the role of those responsible for the building.
Delhi Mayor Pravesh Wahi said strict action would be taken against officials responsible for allowing illegal structures. He said officials found guilty would face stringent action, including immediate dismissal.
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CM Rekha Gupta Visits Site, Reviews Injured At AIIMS
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited the collapse site and later met doctors at the AIIMS Trauma Centre to review the condition of those rescued.
She said strict action would be taken against those responsible for the incident and assured that no one would be spared. The government, she said, was in touch with the families of the injured and providing necessary support.