Gujarat High Court Reprimands Rajkot Municipal Body Over Gaming Zone Permits

The Gujarat High Court sharply criticized the Rajkot municipal body on Monday after it was revealed that two gaming zones in the city had been operating for over two years without the necessary permits. The court's severe reprimand followed a tragic fire incident that resulted in the deaths of 28 people, including nine children.

"Have you gone blind? Did you fall asleep? Now we do not trust the local system and the state government," the court lashed out after being informed that the gaming center in Rajkot had been built on unauthorized premises. Additionally, a hearing regarding fire safety violations had been ongoing for four years.

The devastating fire has drawn attention to the lax enforcement of safety regulations and unauthorized constructions in the city. The court's reaction underscores the critical failures of the local authorities and the state government in preventing such a disaster.

During the hearing, it was revealed that the gaming zones had been operating without the required permits and fire safety measures, putting the lives of numerous visitors, including children, at significant risk. The Gujarat High Court demanded accountability and immediate action from the municipal authorities to rectify the situation and prevent further tragedies.

The court also questioned the effectiveness of the local administration and its commitment to ensuring public safety. The judges expressed their dissatisfaction with the prolonged hearing on fire safety, emphasizing that such delays are unacceptable when public lives are at stake.

In response to the court's rebuke, the Rajkot municipal body has been instructed to take swift action to address the violations and ensure compliance with all safety regulations. The authorities have also been tasked with conducting a thorough investigation into the incident and identifying those responsible for the lapses that led to the fire.

The Gujarat High Court's intervention highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of safety standards and better oversight of public spaces to prevent such tragedies in the future. As the investigation continues, the families of the victims and the general public await justice and assurances that necessary measures will be implemented to safeguard their safety.