SHC Petition Demands Accountability for Gul Plaza Fire
A petition has been filed in the Sindh High Court (SHC) seeking accountability for officials allegedly responsible for the devastating Gul Plaza fire. The legal move aims to initiate criminal, departmental, and contempt proceedings against those deemed negligent.
The petition, filed by Advocate Saleem Michael and Muhammad Haris, names several key government bodies and officials. These include the Sindh government, the Sindh Building Control Authority, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, the chief fire officer, and the directors general of the Sindh Emergency Rescue Service and civil defence, alongside the South deputy commissioner.
Negligence Alleged in Gul Plaza Fire Proceedings
Petitioners argue that the Gul Plaza tragedy was not an accident but a direct result of severe negligence. They point to a failure in inspections, disregard for safety laws, and overall maladministration by the respondents. These entities are legally mandated to ensure building and fire safety standards.
Upholding SHC Orders: A Persistent Challenge
The petition highlights a stark contrast between the court’s directives and the current situation. Citing a 2020 SHC order on public safety and fire prevention, the advocates assert that the respondents have “wilfully, deliberately and contumaciously failed to implement” these instructions for over four years. SindhNews.com has previously reported on unresolved safety concerns in the city.
The petitioners implore the court to officially declare that the Gul Plaza incident stemmed from the respondents’ negligence and failure to uphold their statutory duties. They are seeking clear judicial direction for the commencement of accountability measures.
Call for Comprehensive Fire Safety Inquiry
Furthermore, the petitioners have urged the SHC to order a judicial or independent technical inquiry. This investigation would scrutinize fire safety compliance across all commercial buildings within Karachi, aiming to prevent future calamities.
The filing of this petition signals a critical juncture in the pursuit of justice and improved public safety in Karachi. The SHC’s decision is anticipated to set a precedent for accountability regarding building safety regulations.