Fire Tragedy: NHRC seeks report from UP Govt

New Delhi, Apr 12 (UNI) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) today sought a report from the Uttar Pradesh Government on Meerut's trade fair fire tragedy.

Taking suo-motu cognizance of news reports, the Commission directed the state Chief Secretary and Director General of Police to provide details of those killed, injured and missing, case registered and status of investigations besides steps taken by the administration to provide relief, including free medical treatment of the injured.

According to a NHRC spokesman, the state Government has also been asked to explain within two weeks whether all necessary procedures were followed before licence was given for organising the consumer fair.

If true, then reports that nearly 50 people were killed and 110 injured and that proper fire safety clearance was not obtained by the organisers raised ''a serious issue of violation of human rights of the citizens'', the Commission noted.

The NHRC also expressed hope that the victims are given free and proper medical aid at the State's expense.

As against media reports, the state Government says only 34 people were killed and 40 injured in the tragedy.

UNI VN RL HT1600