Prosecution Rejects Initial Report on Gul Plaza Fire
The prosecution has returned the initial investigation report in the Gul Plaza fire case to Karachi Police, citing significant shortcomings in the probe and directing investigators to collect additional evidence before resubmitting the challan. According to the police report, five individuals, including market union office-bearers and a shop owner, have been held responsible for alleged negligence that led to the deadly fire.
Five Individuals Named in Challan
The challan names Union President Tanveer Paste, Vice President Huzaifa Ammar Ismail, General Secretary Amin, Joint Secretary Muhammad Ramadan, and shop owner Nematullah, where the blaze is reported to have originated. However, prosecution authorities rejected the four-page report, stating that it lacks sufficient material to support legal proceedings and requires further investigation.
Key Deficiencies Identified by Prosecution
Among the deficiencies identified is the absence of the official inquiry commission's report into the incident. Prosecutors also directed police to obtain and include CCTV footage from cameras installed around Gul Plaza to establish a clearer sequence of events. In addition, the prosecution pointed out that investigators had failed to identify and record statements from eyewitnesses who were present near the affected shop when the fire broke out.
Investigators Directed to Resubmit Comprehensive Challan
Officials have instructed the investigating team to address the shortcomings, gather the missing documentary and digital evidence, and submit a revised and comprehensive challan for legal scrutiny before the case proceeds further.
