New Delhi: Delhi Police on Saturday detained a sub-contractor in connection with the death of a 25-year-old biker who allegedly fell into an uncovered pit dug by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB in Janakpuri), officials said.
The detained sub-contractor, Rajesh Prajapati, is currently being questioned and is likely to be arrested, as investigators have found that he was informed about the incident hours before the victim’s body was recovered but failed to take any corrective action.
According to police officials, a family passing through the area during the intervening night noticed that a motorcyclist may have fallen into the pit, which was nearly 15 feet deep and excavated as part of a sewer pipeline rehabilitation project. The family alerted a security guard stationed at the site, as well as a person living nearby in a temporary tent.
The security guard, who was employed by Prajapati, informed a junior staff member the same night, stating that a person had fallen into the pit. The junior staff member subsequently contacted Prajapati at around 12.22 am and asked him to reach the location.
Police said Prajapati arrived at the site shortly thereafter and noticed a motorcycle inside the pit. However, he allegedly did not check inside the excavation or take any steps to rescue the victim or alert emergency services.
The deceased, identified as Kamal Dhyani, a resident of Kailashpuri and an employee of a private bank, was returning home when the incident occurred.
An FIR has been registered at Janakpuri Police Station under Section 105 (culpable homicide) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita against the contractor and concerned DJB officials. The Delhi government has also ordered a separate probe into the incident.
The victim’s family has alleged gross negligence on the part of the DJB and has raised suspicions of foul play. Police said the investigation is being conducted on priority and strict legal action will be taken against all those found responsible.
