New Delhi (NVI): The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of media reports on the deaths of at least 43 people in the Delhi’s Anaj Mandi fire yesterday morning.
The Commission has issued notices to the Chief Secretary, Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi, Commissioner of Police, Delhi and the Commissioner of North Delhi Municipal Corporation and sought for a detailed report in the matter within six weeks along with action taken against the errant officials. The Commission has also sought a report on the relief and rehabilitation provided to the next of kin of the deceased and the injured persons.
The Commission observed that it seems the authorities have not learnt any lessons from the tragic incidents occurred in the recent past and incident like Anaj Mandi fire catastrophe was waiting to happen.
According to media reports the fire caused by a short-circuit and turned the five-story building in a lethal gas chamber where 100 to 150 people were sleeping, choking most of the victims to death.
The Commission took note of the media reports that stated that out of 43 victims 39 died due to asphyxiation.
A notice has also been issued to the Secretary, Ministry of Urban Development, Government of India with the expectation that a Committee of Experts may be formed to look into the matters relating to the violation of norms by the building owners, who are conducting commercial activities in the residential areas by encroaching public roads in connivance with public officials of different agencies.
The Committee must look into the Master Plan of Delhi and to take all adequate and appropriate measures by examining all issues of illegal construction, misuse of rules and use of factory area for residential purposes, thoroughly and submit its report with their suggestions to streamline all the congested areas within Delhi to make it more save and worth living for the citizens. The response is expected within six weeks.
-sb
