Delhi PG Operator Arrested Following Building Collapse That Killed Seven

Delhi police have arrested Sudhanshu, the operator of a paying guest accommodation, in connection with the collapse of a five storey building in the Satya Niketan area. The incident, which occurred on Sunday afternoon, resulted in at least seven deaths. The building was located opposite Sri Venkateswara College and was being used as a private hostel for students. The collapse took place while renovation work was being conducted in the basement of the nearly 50 year old structure.

Sudhanshu is the fifth arrest in the case. Other individuals apprehended include the building owner, 81 year old Hariram Gupta, who was arrested in Rajasthan, as well as his wife Urmila Gupta and son Mahesh Gupta. A labour contractor was also apprehended from Uttar Pradesh. Police have registered a case including charges of culpable homicide, negligence in the upkeep of a structure, and endangering the safety of others. Investigators are also examining a rent agreement that reportedly disclaimed liability for the death or injury of tenants.

In the aftermath, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) suspended five officials, including the South Zone Deputy Commissioner. The Delhi High Court has sought accountability from government officials following a public interest litigation. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited the AIIMS Trauma Centre and announced financial assistance of 5 lakh rupees for each injured person.

The tragedy has prompted a wider crackdown on unsafe structures. The MCD has begun demolishing a building adjacent to the collapse site and carried out 35 demolitions across 12 zones on Tuesday. Officials are planning a massive survey of paying guest accommodations to identify unsafe facilities. This effort comes amid a broader campaign where the MCD has demolished 983 properties since June 1. However, officials noted that legal protections for certain unauthorized developments until December 31, 2026, present hurdles to punitive action.