Delhi Police Arrest Sub‑Contractor in Janakpuri Pit Death Case

February 7, 2026

Delhi Police on Saturday arrested sub‑contractor Rajesh Prajapati in connection with the tragic death of a 25‑year‑old man who fell into an uncovered construction pit in West Delhi’s Janakpuri area. The arrest comes after intense investigations and growing public outrage over the incident.

The deceased, identified as Kamal Dhyani, was found dead along with his motorcycle in a deep pit dug for sewer pipeline work. The pit was reportedly left without proper safety measures, raising questions about negligence and accountability.

Details of the Fatal Incident

On the night of Feb 5–6, 2026, Kamal, an employee of a private bank based in Rohini, was returning home late after work. He was last in touch with family around 11:30 PM before he went missing. His family spent the rest of the night searching for him, visiting several police stations to seek help.

The next morning, around 8 AM, authorities were alerted to a motorcycle and a body found inside a deep construction pit on Joginder Singh Marg. Rescue teams recovered the body and bike from the pit, and Kamal was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police FIR and Charges Registered

An FIR was registered at Janakpuri Police Station under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (culpable homicide) against both the sub‑contractor and officials of the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) responsible for the work.

Investigators stated that the pit lacked adequate barricading, warning signs and safety guards, contributing to the fatal accident.

Arrest of Sub‑Contractor Rajesh Prajapati

Rajesh Prajapati, the sub‑contractor overseeing the construction work, was detained by Delhi Police after months of preliminary inquiries. Officials found that he had been informed about the accident late at night but failed to take immediate action or ensure safety protocols were followed.

Police sources indicate Prajapati is being questioned and may be formally placed under arrest as the probe continues.

Safety Lapses and Public Outcry

Local residents and Kamal’s family members have criticised civic authorities, saying the pit was left open without protective measures, despite being dug days earlier. Neighbourhood welfare groups also pointed to insufficient barricades and poor signage that made the site hazardous to commuters.

This incident has triggered broader debate over construction safety norms in Delhi, especially regarding excavations for civic projects. Critics argue that insufficient enforcement of safety standards has repeatedly resulted in dangerous open pits across the capital.

Government Response and Probe

Following the tragedy, the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) constituted a high‑level inquiry committee to review safety norms and compliance at the Janakpuri worksite, as ordered by ministers. The committee is expected to submit its findings soon.

Authorities have also suspended multiple engineers involved in the project and pledged strict action against negligence.

Calls for Accountability

Kamal’s family members have expressed deep grief and frustration over the delayed police response and lack of early help. The case has drawn attention from civic activists who are now demanding greater accountability from both the contractor and Delhi Jal Board officials.

As the investigation unfolds, police continue to gather evidence and examine the roles of all parties involved in the deadly collapse, with an eye on preventing similar tragedies in the future.