·May 9, 2017

Judicial Commission probing Puttingal fireworks mishap seeks Public Opinion

Justice P. S. Gopinathan, former Judge of the High Court of Kerala, was appointed in February as the Commission of Inquiry for probing the fireworks mishap at Puttingal Devi Temple near Paravoor in Kollam. The Commission has now invited public as well as people connected with or victims of the fireworks mishap to submit affidavits, statements or suggestions to the Commission on the tragedy or matters connected to it.

Justice Krishnan Nair was initially appointed as the Judicial Commission of Inquiry by the previous UDF government soon after the fireworks mishap. However he tendered his resignation as the Commission was not provided sufficient funds and infrastructure to commence its work.

The terms of reference of the Commission of Inquiry are as follows:

I. To inquire into the circumstances and the specific causes which led to the fireworks mishap in which many people lost their lives and others sustained serious injuries at Puttingal Temple, Paravoor on 10/04/2016.

II. To inquire whether there was any violation of the Explosives Act, 1884 or any other Acts, Rules and Orders issued by Government from time to time in the matter.

III. To inquire whether there were any lapses on the part of the authorities in preventing the said incident.

IV. To suggest the measures to be adopted by various agencies to avoid such incidents in future and also to ensure the safety and security of people.

V. To examine the matters incidental to and arising out of the above.

The suggestions, affidavits or statements has to be forwarded to the Secretary of the Commission of Inquiry by post or email on or before 27th of this month. The camp office of the Commission will be functioning in PWD Rest House, Kollam from 15th May to 27th May and public can submit their suggestions, affidavits or statements in person to the Secretary of the Commission. Persons who submit such suggestions, affidavits or statements are likely to be summoned to appear before the Commission later to give evidence.