7 Lives Lost In Delhi PG Collapse, Owners And Operators Under Investigation (Image: Google)
New Delhi: The investigation into the Satya Niketan building collapse has revealed that the five-storey property was leased out in 2025 to two operators who allegedly ran it as a boys’ paying guest accommodation under the name Hostel Daze, police sources said.
The probe comes after the tragic collapse of the building that claimed seven lives, including five students and two labourers, in Delhi’s South Campus area.
According to police investigation details, Mahesh Gupta, who managed maintenance work for the property on behalf of his parents, told investigators that the building was leased to business partners Shubham Tyagi and Sudhanshu in August 2025. The duo allegedly operated the premises as a boys’ PG accommodation under the name Hostel Daze. Police have arrested Sudhanshu, while Shubham Tyagi is reportedly absconding.
Mahesh Gupta and his parents Hariram Gupta and Urmila Gupta have been arrested in connection with the case.
According to the FIR, police are investigating allegations that additional floors were constructed on the old building to increase rental income despite concerns over structural capacity.
Investigators suspect that extra construction may have increased pressure on the building foundation.
Police are also examining repair activities carried out at the property before the collapse. According to investigators, repair work was reportedly underway in the basement after water and waste accumulation following heavy rainfall. Work on the ground floor for possible commercial expansion is also being examined.
Authorities are investigating whether these activities had any role in weakening the structure.
Police are examining the rent agreement between the property owners and PG operators. Sources said the agreement allegedly included clauses related to risks and liabilities for tenants, including situations involving accidents, natural disasters, fire or structural issues.
Investigators are verifying the legal validity of these clauses and the responsibilities of the operators.
Following the tragedy, the Delhi government has ordered a safety review of paying guest accommodations across the capital. Authorities will examine building safety standards, Fire Safety NOCs, required permissions and structural stability certificates. CM Rekha Gupta visited the AIIMS Trauma Centre and met families affected by the collapse. She announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh each for injured victims.
Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood said the government plans to introduce a policy and launch a dedicated web portal within 30 to 45 days to regulate PG accommodations and coaching institutes. The portal is expected to provide details about PG facilities, availability, safety measures and compliance standards.
The Satya Niketan collapse has raised fresh concerns among students living near Delhi University’s South Campus over cramped accommodation, high rents and safety standards in private PG facilities. Police investigation into the roles of property owners, PG operators and workers involved in construction and repair work is continuing.
