The Sindh High Court has taken a key step toward accountability following the deadly Gul Plaza fire in Karachi. Chief Justice Zafar Ahmed Rajput has nominated Justice Agha Faisal to head a single-member judicial commission to investigate the tragedy.
The nomination follows a formal request submitted by the Sindh government. The request was sent on January 29, seeking a judicial probe into the incident. The fire erupted at Gul Plaza Shopping Mall last month and claimed 80 lives.
The judicial commission will focus on identifying the causes of the fire. It will also examine safety lapses and possible negligence. The commission’s tenure and terms of reference will be determined by the provincial government.
The Gul Plaza fire raised serious concerns across Sindh. The scale of casualties shocked the public and authorities alike. Questions emerged about fire safety measures, emergency exits, and building compliance standards.
Following the tragedy, pressure mounted on the government to ensure an independent inquiry. Legal experts and civil society groups demanded accountability. Many argued that only a judicial commission could restore public confidence.
By nominating Justice Agha Faisal, the Sindh High Court signaled its commitment to transparency. The move also reflects judicial oversight in matters involving public safety. Moreover, it underscores the need for institutional responsibility.
The Sindh government has stated that the commission will be empowered to summon records and officials. It is expected to review administrative actions taken before and after the incident. Findings may also guide future safety regulations.
Although the commission has been nominated, its operational timeline remains undecided. The government will announce the duration once procedural requirements are completed. Until then, families of victims continue to seek justice.
The Gul Plaza incident stands among Karachi’s deadliest commercial fires. It exposed gaps in enforcement and emergency preparedness. As a result, the judicial probe carries significant public expectations.
Observers believe the commission’s findings could influence policy reforms. Improved building inspections and stricter safety compliance may follow. Ultimately, the inquiry aims to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The nomination marks the first formal step toward uncovering the truth. Now, attention turns to the commission’s work and its eventual conclusions.
