New Delhi: The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has taken decisive action against the Drishti IAS coaching institute, sealing its basement in Mukherjee Nagar for alleged violations of building regulations. The coaching institute, renowned for preparing students for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams, was reportedly operating classes in the basement, an area designated solely for storage.
The MCD’s action comes in the wake of a tragic incident involving another coaching center, Rau’s IAS Study Circle in Old Rajinder Nagar, where three civil service aspirants lost their lives due to flooding in the basement area. The students used the basement, which was functioning as a library, during the torrential rains when the tragic incident occurred.
Drishti IAS, founded in 1999 by Dr. Vikas Divyakirti, has been a prominent name in the UPSC coaching arena. Divyakirti, an accomplished educator and former civil servant, began his career as an assistant professor at the University of Delhi. He cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination in his first attempt in 1996, securing an All India Rank (AIR) of 384. After a brief stint in the Central Secretariat Service, where he served in the Department of Official Language under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Divyakirti resigned to pursue his passion for teaching.
The coaching center has gained significant popularity over the years, with Divyakirti also establishing a substantial online presence. He launched his YouTube channel in November 2022, which has since garnered over 2.5 million subscribers. The channel features educational content and lectures aimed at UPSC aspirants. Additionally, Divyakirti manages several other YouTube channels under the Drishti brand, covering various subjects and examination preparations, including Drishti IAS, Drishti IAS English, Drishti Judiciary, Drishti PCS, Drishti Teaching Exams, Drishti IAS Shorts, Drishti CUET Hindi, Drishti CUET English, and the Drishti Welfare Foundation.
In a recent development, Divyakirti made a notable appearance in the biographical drama film “12th Fail,” directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, where he portrayed himself. His involvement extended to contributing to the film’s scriptwriting, further cementing his influence in the educational domain.
The MCD’s decision to seal the basement of Drishti IAS highlights the pressing need for coaching centers to adhere strictly to building norms and safety regulations. The recent tragedies and enforcement actions underscore the risks associated with improper use of infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of student safety and compliance with civic laws.
As investigations continue, the Delhi civic body is expected to intensify its crackdown on illegal constructions and unauthorized use of premises across the city’s coaching hubs, ensuring that all educational institutions adhere to the stipulated guidelines. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the responsibilities that come with running such establishments and the critical importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of students.
Mahi Saha
Mahi Saha, from Ranchi, reports for Neo Politico.
