LOK ADHIKAR SANGH Vs. STATE OF GUJARAT

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Rule. We have heard the parties on interim relief.

(2.) This petition is filed as a Public Interest Litigation (P.I.L.) by Lok Adhikar Sangh for an appropriate writ, direction and/or order directing the respondent-authorities to observe fire safety measures in various cinema halls, factories and high-rise buildings and to take appropriate action against the erring officers who are responsible for gross violation of rules and regulations. A prayer is also made to create an independent machinery as also monitoring agency representing various sections of people to monitor working of safety measures and for bringing to light violation of rules and regulations. A further prayer is made directing the Chief Fire Brigade Officer of the Corporation to submit immediately a report regarding fire safety measures taken by him.

(3.) The petition was filed in June, 1997. Notice was thereafter issued and certain interim orders were passed directing the authorities to file affidavits and to place on record what steps were taken by them for adequate fire prevention and protective system. The Court also directed the authorities to issue notices to violators of rules and regulations directing them to take various steps contemplated by Act and Rules and to take action against erring builders/ developers/owners/occupiers of high-rise buildings. The Police Commissioner, Ahmedabad was asked to take actions against cinema theatres which were not having sufficient fire safety measures. It was indicated that at the time of issuance of licence or renewal thereof, the police authorities would insist on strict compliance with safety measures.