Mon, 06 January 2025 04:07:30pm
Gujarat High Court Demands Accountability in Rajkot Game Zone Fire Tragedy
Gujarat High Court Demands Accountability in Rajkot Game Zone Fire Tragedy
In a landmark decision, the Gujarat High Court has ordered a thorough investigation into the devastating fire incident at a Rajkot gaming zone that claimed 27 lives. The court's stern directive aims to uncover the alleged negligence of Rajkot Municipal Corporation officials and ensure no guilty party is spared. This move follows a series of tragic incidents, including the Morbi bridge collapse and the Harni Lake boat tragedy, highlighting systemic issues within municipal operations across the state.
Key Points to Cover:
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Incident Overview:
- On May 24, a fire broke out at a gaming zone in Rajkot, resulting in 27 fatalities.
- The High Court took suo motu cognisance of the incident on May 26.
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Court's Directive:
- The Gujarat High Court has instructed the State government to form a fact-finding committee.
- This committee will investigate the fire incident and the actions, or lack thereof, of Rajkot Municipal Corporation officials.
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Accountability and Inquiry:
- The court emphasized that no officer found guilty or irresponsible should be spared.
- The inquiry will cover the roles of municipal commissioners from the building's inception to the date of the fire.
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Related Incidents:
- The directive includes an inquiry into other recent tragedies such as the Morbi bridge collapse and the Harni Lake boat tragedy.
- These incidents reflect broader issues in the management of public spaces by municipal bodies.
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Fire Safety and Building Regulations:
- The court noted the gaming zone operated without proper building use permission.
- It highlighted that temporary structures were used to bypass regulatory requirements.
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Government Actions:
- The Principal Secretary of the Urban Development and Urban Housing Department is to file a personal affidavit with the inquiry report.
- A high-level committee of three senior officers will be constituted for the fact-finding mission.
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Public Safety Concerns:
- The court’s order underlines the necessity for stringent fire safety and structural norms in public places.
- There is a directive for physical inspections of schools to ensure compliance with fire safety measures.
Check Gujarat High Court Orders Here.
Conclusion:
The Gujarat High Court's decisive action in ordering a comprehensive investigation into the Rajkot gaming zone fire underscores the need for accountability and stringent safety standards in public spaces. By extending the inquiry to other recent incidents and directing immediate measures for public safety, the court aims to address systemic failings and prevent future tragedies. As the state prepares for further hearings on July 4, the spotlight remains firmly on ensuring justice and enhancing safety measures for the public.
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