New Delhi: A tragic fire engulfed a penthouse in Shabd Apartment Society, located in Dwarka Sector-13, early Tuesday morning, claiming the lives of three family members. The victims have been identified as 10-year-old Aashima Yadav, 12-year-old Shiv Yadav, and their uncle Yash Yadav.
According to eyewitnesses and media reports, the family was trapped in the fire and thick smoke on the 9th floor. Despite desperate cries for help, no immediate assistance could reach them. In a final act of desperation, Yash attempted to save the children by dropping them from the balcony, hoping someone might catch them. Tragically, all three sustained fatal injuries.
Fire Safety System Failed Completely
Shockingly, residents allege that the society’s fire-fighting system completely failed when it was needed most. The fire hydrant was reportedly non-functional, water pipes were dry, and the guard room was locked during the emergency.
The society, where flats cost several crores, collects a monthly maintenance fee of ₹3600 per household. Yet, critical fire safety infrastructure was either not maintained or never operational.
‘Negligence, Not Accident’
This is not being seen as an unfortunate accident but as a result of gross negligence. The absence of a functioning fire safety system raises pressing questions about accountability. Why was there no recent safety audit? Why did the Residents’ Welfare Association (RWA) and the maintenance agency ignore these life-threatening gaps?
Legal experts and residents are demanding to know whether a case of culpable homicide (Section 304A IPC) should be filed against those responsible for the failure of the safety systems.
Public Anger Mounts
The tragedy has sparked outrage among residents. Many are questioning the priorities of the RWA and maintenance agency: “Where is all the maintenance money going into aesthetics, swimming pools, and electricity bills but not basic life safety?”
Citizens are also pointing fingers at the Delhi government. Was a mandatory fire safety audit conducted for the building? If not, who is accountable?
Call for Action
Residents have demanded strict action against the RWA and maintenance company, and an immediate independent fire safety audit. “Had this happened to the family of a minister or top official, would the system still stay silent?” one resident asked angrily.
The incident underscores the urgent need for a citywide re-evaluation of fire safety norms, RWA accountability, and enforcement of building safety protocols.