Delhi building collapse: CM orders magisterial inquiry, promises action against illegal construction

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday (May 31, 2026) ordered a magisterial inquiry into the building collapse and said that strict action will be taken against all unauthorised constructions. 

She also directed officials to immediately conduct a survey and inspection of dilapidated, dangerous and illegal buildings in Saidulajab and nearby areas. 

Meanwhile, the AAP alleged that, despite complaints from neighbours, the BJP-ruled MCD had lied to the High Court about the building. The party also said that the suspension of two junior-level officers was not enough and sought the MCD Mayor’s resignation on moral grounds.

“Saket building collapse, which caused the deaths of many students, was dangerously leaning, and its neighbours had filed a writ against its unauthorised construction in the High Court. But the BJP ruled MCD lied before the High Court that no construction was going on. A month later, the building collapsed, killing many,” AAP Delhi president Saurabh Bharadwaj said in a post on X. 

Ms. Gupta visited the site of the building collapse and met the affected families, and offered her condolences. The CM assured the families that the Delhi government stands firmly with them in this difficult time and will provide all possible financial and administrative assistance to the victims.

Warning officials, the CM said that accountability would be fixed on those who have protected illegal constructions or failed to discharge their responsibilities properly and any official found guilty would also face strict action.

AAP Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Ankush Narang, questioned why the MCD wakes up only after every major tragedy. “Complaints regarding illegal constructions and dilapidated buildings in the national capital continue to emerge regularly, but effective action is not taken in time, putting people’s lives at risk,” he said.

Hitting back, Delhi BJP spokesperson Praveen Shakar Kapoor said that Mr. Bharadwaj should explain when, during the tenure of the AAP government and Municipal Corporation administration in Delhi, such sensitivity was shown and strict action taken within less than 24 hours after any of the numerous tragic incidents.

“People of Delhi have once again witnessed what he described as the ‘crocodile tears’ of Aam Aadmi Party leaders, while the BJP’s sensitive and responsive administration suspended two officials within less than 24 hours of the incident,” he said.