Sindh Government Announces Judicial Commission for Gul Plaza Fire Investigation
The Sindh government has taken a decisive step by announcing the establishment of a judicial commission to thoroughly investigate the devastating Gul Plaza fire in Karachi, which resulted in the tragic loss of 80 lives. This move underscores the provincial administration's commitment to uncovering the truth behind the incident and ensuring accountability.
Independent Inquiry and Government Stance
Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Memon, addressing a press conference alongside Karachi Police Chief Afzal Khan and Commissioner Hassan Naqvi, emphasized that the inquiry will be conducted independently. He firmly stated that the government will not yield to any political pressure, highlighting a dedication to transparency and justice in the aftermath of the catastrophe.
Memon clarified that the fire was not a result of deliberate action, citing preliminary evidence. "No one set the fire. Strong evidence indicates it originated from an 11-year-old child, and we will submit all evidence to the court," he explained, aiming to dispel any misconceptions about the cause of the blaze.
Cabinet Response and Committee Actions
Following the tragedy, the Sindh cabinet convened a special meeting and formed a sub-committee to address the immediate fallout. This sub-committee built upon the findings of a fact-finding committee previously established by the Sindh chief minister, which informed key decisions taken in response to the incident.
According to Minister Memon, approximately 2,500 people were present in the plaza when the fire broke out. While many managed to escape, the death toll reached 80, marking one of the deadliest fire incidents in recent Karachi history. In the wake of the committee report, the Civil Defence Department conducted several fire audits, though no further actions were reported by the district administration at that time.
Accountability Measures and Structural Lapses
As part of the accountability process, the Director and Director General of Civil Defence have been suspended, with further action pending against any other individuals found responsible. Memon also noted delays in water supply during the firefighting efforts, leading to the removal of the Chief Engineer of Blocks and Chief Hydrants. Additionally, senior directors of the Karachi Municipal Corporation will face departmental action.
To enhance future emergency responses, all rescue agencies will be coordinated under a single command as per the directives of the Chief Minister. This reorganization aims to prevent similar lapses in coordination during crises.
Regulatory Violations and Legal Actions
The investigation has revealed several structural and regulatory deficiencies at Gul Plaza. The building lacked a proper fire-fighting system and was found to be in violation of approved building plans. Memon warned that if the union or lessee is found negligent, they will face appropriate legal consequences. "Serious irregularities were observed during the lease process, and the Anti-Corruption Department has been instructed to take legal action," he added, signaling a crackdown on corruption and negligence.
Judicial Commission Details and Victim Support
The sub-committee of the cabinet recommended a judicial inquiry to be headed by a sitting judge of the Sindh High Court. A formal request will be sent to the Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court to initiate this process. Memon reiterated the government's commitment to transparency, noting that some political parties had attempted to politicize the tragedy for their own gain.
In a gesture of support, the government is issuing cheques of one crore rupees to the families of the victims. "We are acknowledging our shortcomings and will not bow to political pressure. The judicial commission will determine responsibility, and the court will decide who is at fault," Memon affirmed, underscoring the administration's resolve to address the issue impartially.
Preliminary Findings and Political Context
Responding to questions, Memon shared that preliminary findings suggest the fire spread from air conditioning ducts after an accidental ignition by an 11-year-old child. Additional IG Karachi Afzal Khan corroborated this, stating that the blaze started unintentionally while the shop owner was away, with the child having a matchstick in hand.
Memon reiterated that the judicial commission was established independently by the Sindh government and not at the request of any political party, including MQM, which had sought to leverage the incident for political purposes. This move aims to ensure that the investigation remains free from external influences and focused solely on justice for the victims.
