Yuvraj Mehta Death Case: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the death of engineer Yuvraj Mehta has concluded that serious administrative negligence led to the tragedy, holding 12 officials responsible for multiple lapses. The detailed investigation report has now been formally submitted to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and sources indicate that disciplinary action against those found guilty is likely.
According to officials familiar with the matter, the SIT examined a massive 700-page set of reports submitted by various departments, including the development authority, police, district administration, and the mining department. Instead of presenting a coordinated explanation, several departments allegedly attempted to shift responsibility onto one another, exposing deep-rooted systemic failures.
The SIT report clearly names officers and employees whose negligence contributed to the incident. Investigators noted that the tragedy was not merely an unfortunate accident but the outcome of poor planning, delayed decision-making, and lack of coordination among authorities tasked with public safety. Based on the findings, the government may initiate suspensions and departmental inquiries against the erring officials.
A significant part of the investigation focused on waterlogging-related planning failures, particularly the storm water drainage system. The SIT examined the design and execution of drainage plans, the effectiveness of the control room’s monitoring mechanism, and whether early warnings were ignored. The report points out that monitoring failures allowed the situation to worsen without timely intervention.
One of the most troubling aspects highlighted by the SIT is the two-hour delay in rescuing Yuvraj. Investigators raised serious questions about the rescue response time, availability of trained personnel and equipment, and the role played by officers present at the site. The report suggests that faster and better-coordinated action could have potentially changed the outcome.
The SIT also closely examined the role of the mining department, which submitted its report at the final stage of the investigation. Authorities were asked to provide details on when permission was granted for soil excavation at the concerned plot, the depth and duration of the approved mining activity, and the royalty paid. The investigation also looked into whether soil was excavated beyond permitted limits and, if so, what action was taken by the police and administration.
Investigators sought clarity on whether excessive or unauthorized mining weakened the site and contributed to the fatal incident. The mining department compiled a comprehensive report addressing these concerns and submitted it to the SIT, completing the investigative process.
With the SIT report now before the Chief Minister, the state government is expected to review the findings carefully. Senior officials suggest that the case could become a benchmark for accountability, particularly in matters related to urban planning, emergency response, and inter-departmental coordination. The coming days are likely to determine the course of action against those whose negligence cost a young engineer his life.