Gul Plaza Fire: Justice Delayed or Investigation Protected? SIC Dismisses MQM-P’s Plea for Public Report

In a decision that has stirred both hope and frustration among the citizens of Karachi, the Sindh Information Commission (SIC) on Wednesday dismissed a plea by the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) to make the judicial commission’s report on the tragic Gul Plaza fire public. The commission ruled that the matter remains under investigation, citing legal exemptions under the Sindh Transparency and Right to Information Act, 2016. For a nation that values transparency and the sanctity of life, this ruling raises critical questions about accountability and the protection of public interest.

What Happened at the SIC Hearing?

The SIC, comprising Information Commissioners Muhammad Saleem Khan and Noor Muhammad Dayo, heard arguments from MQM-P counsel M Tariq Mansoor and respondents. The commission dismissed the application, noting that the case falls under Section 10 (1), (F) and (G) of the Sindh Transparency and Right to Information Act, 2016, which allows exceptions when disclosure could hamper investigations, reveal confidential sources, or prejudice crime prevention.

“Without going through the merits and demerits of the case, we find it appropriate that, let the process of ongoing further investigation of the subject incident be completed without any interruption from any corner. As the matter involves the precious lives, liberties and properties of the citizens, therefore, once the investigation is completed, the investigation officer would file his challan by making all essential information and documents(s) or report(s) part of the investigation, which on taking cognizance by the learned judicial magistrate shall be made as public record,” the order stated.

The commission emphasized that the precious lives lost in the fire demand a thorough, uninterrupted probe. Once completed, the findings will become public record through the judicial process.

Why Did the MQM-P File This Plea?

The MQM-P, a party that has long championed the rights of Karachi’s citizens, filed the complaint in May through Advocate Mansoor under the Sindh Transparency and Right to Information Act, 2016, and Article 19-A of the Constitution. The party argued that the Gul Plaza fire report is directly tied to the right to life and is a matter of extreme public importance. The inquiry commission was constituted to fix responsibilities and punish those involved in gross criminal negligence, mismanagement, and corruption in government departments.

“A prima facie gross criminal negligence, mismanagement and corruption in the govt. departments and allied machineries has occurred due to which innocent citizens have lost their precious lives and hundreds are affected,” the counsel maintained.

The MQM-P sought to make the report public to ensure transparency and accountability, preventing such tragedies in the future.

What Did the Investigation Officer Say?

During the hearing, DSP Aamir Virk, the newly appointed investigation officer (IO) in the Gul Plaza fire case, informed the SIC that the matter is still under investigation. He noted that necessary facts and documents from relevant departments are yet to be obtained. Interestingly, when asked whether the previous and current IOs had reviewed the Gul Plaza inquiry commission report and the commissioner’s report, both replied that they had not received those reports.

The SIC also noted that three of the four respondents stated the record was not held by them, while it vested with the office of the Chief Secretary of Sindh. However, the Chief Secretary’s office disclosed that the information cannot be disseminated at this stage, as the matter is under implementation process and falls under an exception provided by the Information Act.

What Does This Mean for Pakistan’s Quest for Justice?

For a nation built on the principles of faith, unity, and discipline, the Gul Plaza fire tragedy is a painful reminder of the need for accountability. The SIC’s decision, while legally sound, underscores the tension between protecting investigations and ensuring public trust. As Muslims, we believe in the sanctity of life and the pursuit of justice. The Quran reminds us, “And whoever saves one life, it is as if he had saved all of mankind” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:32). The families of the victims deserve closure, and the nation deserves transparency.

However, we must also respect the legal process. The SIC’s order to wait until the investigation is complete and the challan is filed is a necessary step to avoid compromising the probe. Once the judicial magistrate takes cognizance, the report will become public record, ensuring that justice is served without interference.

What Are the Next Steps?

The MQM-P has the option to challenge the SIC’s decision in a higher court. The party’s counsel, Advocate Mansoor, argued that the report is essential for fixing responsibility and preventing future tragedies. For now, the investigation continues, and the nation watches with bated breath. The Gul Plaza fire, which claimed precious lives, must not be forgotten. It is a test of our commitment to justice, transparency, and the rule of law.

As Pakistanis, we stand with the victims’ families and demand that the investigation be completed swiftly and thoroughly. Let us pray that the truth emerges, and those responsible are held accountable. In the words of Allama Iqbal, “Khudi ko kar buland itna ke har taqdeer se pehle, Khuda bande se khud poochhe, bata teri raza kya hai.” May Allah grant patience to the affected families and guide our institutions toward justice.