TRP Gaming Zone in Rajkot: Gujarat HC criticizes the Rajkot Municipal Body and the State Government says, “We do not trust”

On May 26, 2024 (Sunday), the Gujarat High Court took suo motu cognizance of the tragic fire incident at TRP Gaming Zone in Rajkot. The bench constituting Justice Biren Vaishnav and Justice Devan M. Desai observed “Apart from having constructed such Game zones / recreational facilities, they have been put to use apparently according to our information through the newspaper report, without permission. Prima Facie, a man-made disaster has occurred where innocent lives of children have been lost and families have grieved today (May 26) for the loss of lives in their respective families.” Reportedly, the fire erupted on Saturday evening resulting in the deaths of approximately 27 people including children. An order was passed by the Gujarat HC stating to hear the matter today (May 27, 2024). While hearing the matter today, the HC bench came down heavily on the Rajkot municipal body and the state government after noting that the gaming zone had been operating without necessary permissions for over 2 years. The bench said, “It is most unfortunate that it is only the death of innocent children and the young ones have opened the eyes of authorities at a stage when the families of Rajkot have lost their loved ones.” It further said, “Have you gone blind? Did you fall asleep? Now we do not trust the local system and the state government.” 

After hearing the contentions, the HC directed the incumbent commissioner of the Rajkot Municipal Corporation and other officials who held the position from July 2021 till the incident date to file affidavits before the Court, explaining the following aspects:

• Compliance with the GDCR Regulations, including the Fire NOC.
• Obtaining certificates on the structural stability of constructions.
• Conducting periodical checks to ensure compliance with safety raisers in accordance with the Fire Safety Act.
• Collecting licenses under various acts.

The HC also directed the commissioners to list all the gaming zones and recreational centers within their jurisdiction. Also, it directed the Commissioner of Police, Rajkot, to explain what permissions were sought for and granted to TRP Gaming, and whether such permissions were granted under the provisions of Section 33(w) of the Act. The bench listed the matter for hearing on June 6, 2024, and directed to file the affidavits before June 03, 3034.