Madras HC Junks Plea on Mall Safety After Corrective Measures Implemented

The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court dismissed a petition seeking to ensure safety at a mall after the mall authorities complied with the suggestions made by the fire and rescue service department.

A bench of Justices R. Subramanian and L. Victoria Gowri was hearing a petition filed by R. Major Kumar, who sought to ensure public safety at a mall in Madurai city.

The petitioner had alleged that a fire accident occurred at the mall in December 2023 and that no steps had been taken to ensure the safety of individuals. There was no stability or fitness certificate, and events were being held at the mall without any safety measures.

The division bench directed officials to inspect the mall and restrained the mall authorities from conducting any events until further orders. Pursuant to the interim order, the fire and rescue service department conducted a safety audit of the building and made certain suggestions.

A subsequent report filed by the district fire officer in January 2024 stated that all suggestions had been followed and that the building complied with the National Fire and Safety Rescue Rules, 2016.

In light of this report, the court found no reason to issue a mandamus as requested by the petitioner, as the petition’s purpose had been fulfilled. Consequently, the interim order was vacated, the court ruled.