Where’s the real change? Ask UPSC Mains aspirants
Due to rising flat rents and library fees, along with fewer options available, some aspirants have decided to return home to continue their UPSC CSE preparation. Following recent tragedies, including the drowning of three UPSC aspirants and the electrocution death of another, many candidates have struggled to concentrate on the upcoming UPSC Mains exam scheduled for September 20. The tragedies and controversies surrounding Pooja Khedkar have caused significant emotional distress among civil services aspirants.
After the drowning incident in a basement library of Rau’s IAS Study Circle, Delhi authorities have begun sealing off all underground and basement libraries in Old Rajinder Nagar and Mukherjee Nagar. This move has negatively impacted both the mental health and preparation momentum of aspirants.
The coaching culture in India has long been intertwined with libraries and reading rooms, often located in basements or top floors. Following the tragedies, many aspirants have faced personal fears and trauma. Sagar Saini, a UPSC Mains 2024 aspirant, described how the thought of “this could have been me” haunts him and affects his concentration. Similarly, a first-time aspirant from Madhya Pradesh experienced severe stress and sought therapy after the incidents.
Where’s the real change? Ask UPSC Mains aspirants
Candidates who returned to Old Rajinder Nagar after the tragedy have reported receiving “scary flashbacks” during recent rains. Many faced difficulties retrieving their books from sealed libraries. Some students, who were too frightened to collect their books, had to rely on digital copies.
The rising costs and decreasing availability of libraries have forced some students to find alternatives. Libraries in Karol Bagh, which previously had basement locations, have increased their fees dramatically. Aspirants are now struggling with higher rents and limited seating. As a result, many students have returned home or adjusted their study plans.
While the city has returned to routine, aspirants in areas like Old Rajinder Nagar and Mukherjee Nagar hope for meaningful change. They argue that a complete ban on libraries is not a solution. Instead, they call for proper security measures and reforms to address the issues while preserving the essential study environment.
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