Murder, terrorism charges in Gul Plaza fire case rejected

Transfer of case to sessions court for trial ordered

KARACHI:

A judicial magistrate has rejected an application seeking the inclusion of murder and terrorism charges in the Gul Plaza fire case and ordered the transfer of the case to a sessions court for trial. The court also approved the police charge sheet and issued non-bailable arrest warrants for absconding suspect Muhammad Amin.

Judicial Magistrate South issued a detailed written order that states, the committee responsible for maintaining Gul Plaza had shown serious negligence in ensuring fire safety and emergency preparedness, resulting in the loss of precious lives.

Citing the investigating officer's findings, the court noted that the fire had originated at a flower shop on the ground floor. The committee had failed to install adequate firefighting equipment, fire alarms, sprinkler systems and other essential safety measures. The closure of additional exits hampered evacuation, while the power outage following the outbreak of the fire further made the evacuation of occupants and rescue operations difficult. The building also lacked adequate and clearly marked emergency exits. Closed windows on the mezzanine floor and the accumulation of smoke contributed to the loss of life, the order stated.

The court said it agreed with the police report concerning the role of the Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), Civil Defence, Rescue 1122 and other relevant departments.