Authorities in Delhi have responded decisively after the tragic deaths of three UPSC aspirants due to flooding in the basement of an IAS coaching centre in Old Rajinder Nagar. This incident has prompted a citywide crackdown on alleged encroachments and illegal constructions by other coaching centres. The municipal authorities inspected the Drishti IAS centre, managed by Vikas Divyakirti, sealing its basement and five rooms today (July 30). A notice was placed at the entrance, instructing the office to contact city authorities.
The deaths have sparked disappointment among students, particularly over the silence of prominent teachers, including Vikas Divyakirti and Avadh Ojha. This tragedy has brought attention to the lives and careers of these influential educators, highlighting their contributions and controversies.
Vikas Divyakirti: Educator and Influencer
Profile and Background
Vikas Divyakirti, aged 50, is the founder and managing director of Drishti IAS, a prominent coaching institute for civil services preparation. Born on December 26, 1973, in Bhiwani, Haryana, he began his career as an assistant professor at Delhi University. In 1996, Divyakirti cleared the Civil Services Examination on his first attempt, later resigning from his position at the Ministry of Home Affairs to focus on teaching. He is married to Taruna Verma, and the couple has two children. As of 2024, Divyakirti’s net worth is estimated to be around INR 20 crores.
Educational Journey
Divyakirti pursued his education at the University of Delhi, earning degrees in history, Hindi literature, law, and a Ph.D. in Hindi literature. His academic credentials laid a strong foundation for his teaching career, especially in the field of UPSC preparation.
Drishti IAS and YouTube Success
Founded in 1999, Drishti IAS has become a leading centre for UPSC preparation, known for its accessible teaching style in Hindi. Divyakirti also launched a successful YouTube channel in 2022, which quickly amassed over 3.74 million subscribers, offering resources for competitive exams. His involvement in the 2023 film ’12th Fail’, where he played himself, further solidified his influence in educational media.
Controversies
Divyakirti faced backlash in 2022 for narrating a controversial story from the Ramayana during a lecture, which many perceived as disrespectful towards Goddess Sita. The incident led to accusations of anti-Hindu sentiments, with calls to ban his coaching institute. Divyakirti clarified that he was referencing a specific version of the Ramayana and emphasized his commitment to educational discourse.
Avadh Ojha: History Educator and Social Commentator
Career and Influence
Avadh Ojha, another influential educator in UPSC coaching, is known for his work in history. He began his teaching career in 2005, working at various coaching centres before founding IQRA Academy in Pune in 2019. Ojha, aged 48, is married with three children, and his net worth is estimated at around INR 10 crores.
Educational Content and Social Media
Ojha’s YouTube channel, ‘Ray Avadh Ojha’, launched in 2020, provides educational content and motivational talks, attracting over 879,000 subscribers. His approach to teaching history and current affairs has resonated with many aspirants.
Controversial Statements
In a controversial video, Ojha suggested that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should establish a ‘Modi dynasty’, drawing parallels with historical figures like Muhammad Ghori. This statement sparked debate, with some interpreting it as a critique of the current political climate in India.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Developments
The deaths of the three UPSC aspirants have led to widespread disappointment among students and the general public. There is a growing demand for accountability and action to prevent such tragedies in the future. The silence of prominent educators like Divyakirti and Ojha has been noted, highlighting the complex dynamics between educators, their influence, and their responsibilities in times of crisis.
As authorities continue their campaign against illegal constructions, the coaching centres and educators involved face increased scrutiny. The situation underscores the need for stringent safety regulations and ethical responsibilities in the educational sector.
