Sindh Governor Writes to Chief Justice for Judicial Commission into Gul Plaza Tragedy

Karachi: Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori has written to the Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court, requesting the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the Gul Plaza fire tragedy, citing widespread public concern and the need for a transparent inquiry.

In a letter addressed to Sindh High Court Chief Justice Justice Zafar Ahmed Rajput, the governor recommended the establishment of an independent and impartial judicial inquiry commission under the supervision of the high court. He said the deadly fire that broke out at Gul Plaza on January 17, 2026, resulted in an irreparable loss of precious human lives and has caused serious public anxiety.

The governor emphasized that, given the gravity of the incident and growing public concern, a credible, transparent, and independent inquiry is essential to determine the causes of the fire, identify any administrative negligence, and fix individual or institutional responsibility. He added that such an inquiry would not only ensure accountability but also help prevent similar tragedies in the future in the broader public interest.

Kamran Tessori expressed confidence that a judiciary-led investigation would help restore public trust and ensure justice in accordance with the law.

Meanwhile, the Karachi Commissioner has finalized a separate investigation report into the Gul Plaza incident, which will be submitted to Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. According to Express News, the report was prepared by a committee comprising the Karachi Commissioner and the Additional Inspector General of Police. While key findings have emerged, no individual or department has yet been held responsible for negligence.

Sources said the report states that the fire broke out at Gul Plaza at 10:15pm, while the fire brigade received information at 10:26pm. The first fire tender reportedly reached the scene 11 minutes later, at 10:37pm.

The investigation further revealed that children were present at a flower shop on the ground floor and were allegedly playing with a matchbox or lighter, which caused the fire that eventually engulfed the entire building. According to the report, the incident claimed 79 lives, with the majority of fatalities occurring on the mezzanine floor.