The investigation into the devastating Gul Plaza fire case has encountered another setback, as the prosecution department returned the police charge sheet for the second time, labeling it "incomplete" and "defective". This move has raised serious questions about the role of the investigating officer (IO).
Prosecution Cites Repeated Mistakes
Official sources within the prosecution told reporters on Friday that the IO not only failed to address the deficiencies pointed out earlier but also repeated the same errors in the revised challan. The charge sheet does not include the crucial report of the judicial commission formed to probe the tragedy, nor does it address key aspects such as the blocking of emergency exits, illegal construction of multiple shops, or the possible negligence of civic agencies.
"This is sheer negligence," a senior prosecution official said on condition of anonymity. "We had clearly instructed the IO to attach the judicial commission report and probe the role of all relevant departments. None of that has been done."
Specific Directives Ignored
According to prosecution sources, the IO was specifically directed to investigate: why the building's emergency gates were sealed and who ordered them blocked; how one shop was converted into two or three commercial units in violation of building bylaws; and the involvement of the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), Karachi Development Authority (KDA), Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), and the Fire Brigade in granting approvals or failing to enforce safety measures.
Police High-Ups Red-Faced
The prosecution has now returned the challan, leaving police high-ups embarrassed. Senior police officers have called an emergency meeting to review the situation and decide the next course of action, sources added.
