Karachi — A petition seeking criminal and departmental action against government officials over alleged negligence in the deadly Gul Plaza fire has been filed in the Sindh High Court (SHC), intensifying calls for accountability following the tragic incident that claimed multiple lives.
The petition, submitted by legal representatives, names several key institutions and officials as respondents, including the Sindh government, Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA), Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), the chief fire officer, Sindh Emergency Rescue Service officials, the South district administration and the directorate of civil defence. The petitioners contend that the tragedy was a direct consequence of systemic failures and poor enforcement of safety regulations.
According to the plea, authorities responsible for building inspections and fire safety failed to discharge their statutory duties, allowing commercial structures to operate without adequate safety measures. The petition argues that repeated lapses in inspection and enforcement amounted to maladministration and gross negligence, ultimately leading to loss of life and widespread destruction of property.
The petition also refers to earlier directives issued by the Sindh High Court regarding fire safety and public protection, alleging that these binding orders were ignored by the relevant departments. The continued non-implementation of safety measures, it claims, reflects a pattern of disregard for human life and legal obligations.
The petitioners have urged the court to order criminal proceedings, departmental inquiries and contempt action against the officials found responsible. In addition, they have requested an independent and transparent inquiry into fire safety compliance across Karachi’s commercial buildings to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Legal experts say the case could set an important precedent in defining institutional accountability for urban safety failures. As public anger grows and families of victims demand justice, all eyes are now on the SHC to determine whether the tragedy will lead to meaningful reform and enforcement of safety standards.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.