Three students tragically lost their lives on Saturday evening after the basement of the Rau's IAS Study Circle building in Old Rajinder Nagar, central Delhi, was flooded following heavy rain. Protests outside the coaching institutes in Rajinder Nagar have continued for the fourth day on Wednesday, with students expressing frustration that their demands have not been met.
In the aftermath of the incident, teachers Vikas Divyakirti and Avadh Ojha initially remained silent, which caused anger among the students. However, on Tuesday, Vikas Divyakirti broke his silence, stating that he has been unfairly targeted as everyone seeks a scapegoat in such situations. Meanwhile, Avadh Ojha released a video urging the government to implement stricter laws to prevent such tragedies in the future.
In an exlusive interview with ABP News, renowned educator Avadh Ojha addressed the growing anger among students and the broader issues surrounding coaching centre safety in light of the recent tragic incident in Delhi.
Ojha shared the advantages of online education.
"Given the efficiency of online learning today, I urge students to take advantage of the resources available online. The same quality of education is being provided, and you can prepare from the comfort of your home," Avadh Ojha said.
"One way to tackle various difficulties is to embrace online learning," he added.
When questioned about his and Vikas Divyakirti's delayed responses, Ojha said, "I did not try to save my image. I have come forward with a four-point program."
"I am calling for urgent reforms: ban all classes in basements, limit coaching centre capacity to maximum 200 students, enforce life imprisonment for negligence, and mandate annual lists of UPSC-selected students," said Avadh Ojha.
Students expressed a strong desire for Ojha's presence and guidance, saying, "We have no issues with our teachers; we want his support."
Ojha responded, "These are not just rebellious kids; they are sensible students. I promise to address their safety and compliance issues."
He also questioned, "Why is the photo of the coaching center owner where the incident occurred not being shown?"
Ojdha said that basements are not meant for teaching.
"At my coaching center, Awadh Ojha Classes, which is on the third floor above Kalyan Jewellers, the building owner once suggested we move to the basement for a discount of 4 lakhs. I refused because I had previously taught in a basement, and it felt suffocating. A colleague of mine even passed away while teaching in a basement. Basements are not meant for teaching," he said.
Ojha criticised the handling of the incident, stating, "The focus has shifted to two individuals, while the name of the person truly responsible remains unaddressed."
Ojha concluded with a reassuring message to students, saying, "I want to assure all students that I stand with them. If ten students approach me, I will advocate to the government to address and resolve their issues."
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