The Kerala High Court, in a suo motu case initiated following the fireworks accident in Mundathicode, Thrissur, on April 21 during preparations for the Pooram festival fireworks display, directed the state government to submit an affidavit detailing the steps taken to ensure that such incidents do not recur and the compensation extended to the families of the deceased.
Court's Directive
A bench of Chief Justice Soumen Sen and Justice V M Syam Kumar on Thursday further directed the state government to file a detailed affidavit within three weeks and adjourned the petition to July 17.
It was reported that the mishap in Mundathicode resulted in 16 deaths, multiple injuries, and significant property damage. The suo motu case was initiated following the receipt of several representations regarding the fireworks accident, highlighting continued violations and inadequate enforcement of the court’s directives, as well as the relevant rules and statutory provisions.
Central Government's Submission
During the hearing on Thursday, the central government counsel submitted that permission for the storage and use of a minimum quantity of fireworks is granted by the district collector and other competent authorities. Counsel further submitted that instructions would be obtained from the central government authorities regarding the availability of any provisions for compensating those affected by the accident and the measures that could be taken in that regard, and that the same would be placed before the High Court.
High Court's Inquiry
The High Court subsequently sought information from the government pleader regarding the compensation already paid and the nature of the investigation conducted into the incident. Thereafter, the High Court directed the state government to place on record a detailed affidavit on these aspects.
