Karachi: Police have held the union president of Gul Plaza and several others responsible for the devastating fire incident at the commercial complex, according to the investigation report submitted in the case.
The charge sheet in the Gul Plaza fire case names union president Tanveer Pasta, vice president Ammar Ismail, general secretary Ameen and joint secretary Mohammad Ramzan as responsible for the blaze, according to prosecution sources.
However, the prosecution department has returned the challan with objections, seeking further clarification and amendments before proceeding with the case in court.
The incident took place on January 17 this year at Gul Plaza, a well-known shopping centre located on MA Jinnah Road in Karachi. The fire engulfed the building and continued for three days, causing extensive destruction and resulting in a major loss of life and property.
According to official reports, more than 70 people lost their lives in the tragic incident, while the entire commercial complex was reduced to ashes.
Authorities had earlier launched multiple investigations into the cause of the fire and the circumstances that led to the high number of casualties. The case has since drawn significant public attention due to concerns over building safety standards and emergency response mechanisms in commercial areas.
Officials said the prosecution department’s decision to return the challan indicates that further review is required before formal legal proceedings can advance. Investigators may be asked to address gaps in evidence and strengthen the case before resubmission.
The Gul Plaza fire remains one of the most severe urban fire disasters in Karachi in recent years, raising renewed questions about fire safety compliance in densely populated commercial buildings. Further developments are expected as the investigation continues and the revised challan is prepared for submission.