Delhi High Court Orders Inquiry into Infrastructural Deficiencies at Delhi University’s Faculty of Law

Last Updated on June 13, 2024 by News Desk

Issue:

The Delhi High Court has raised concerns regarding the alleged lack of purified drinking water, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and other essential infrastructure facilities at Delhi University’s Faculty of Law. The petition was filed by students Ronak Khatri, Ankur Singh Mavi, and Umesh Kumar, who highlighted the severe inadequacies in campus amenities.

Rule:

The court, presided by Justice Amit Sharma, issued an order on June 12, appointing Advocate Rajesh Mishra as an amicus curiae to assist in resolving these issues. A directive was given for a meeting involving the Dean of Students’ Welfare, the Dean of Faculty of Law, advocate Ankur Singh Mavi, and the amicus curiae to discuss the provision of water coolers and other infrastructural facilities, including Wi-Fi services. The Bar Council of India (BCI) was also made a respondent in the case.

Application:

The petitioners argued that the absence of air conditioning in classrooms has rendered the environment unbearable, particularly during peak summer months when temperatures can soar to 48 degrees Celsius. The disparity in resource allocation was emphasized, with multiple air conditioners present in administrative offices while students suffered in makeshift buildings with tin roofs and asbestos-lined walls, exacerbating heat conditions. Health issues such as heat strokes and fainting were reported, along with the inadequacy of only four water coolers for around 5,000 students. It was claimed that poor water quality had forced students to purchase packaged drinking water, significantly increasing their education costs. Additionally, connectivity issues were said to hinder academic access.

The University contended that adequate provisions for drinking water were already in place. However, the Court mandated a coordinated meeting to review these claims and required a report to be filed before the next hearing.

Conclusion:

The Court instructed that the meeting be scheduled within a week and that Mr. Mohinder J.S. Rupal, counsel for the respondents, coordinate the meeting with the stakeholders. A comprehensive report on the findings and proposed solutions is to be submitted before the next hearing on July 4. Advocates Ankur Singh Mavi and Umesh Kumar represented the petitioners, while Advocates Mohinder JS Rupal and Hardik Rupal represented Delhi University.

Written by — Athi Venkatesh AVD