LI Network
Published on: January 22, 2024 at 10:32 IST
In response to the boat capsize incident in Vadodara district on January 18, resulting in the unfortunate loss of 16 lives, including 12 children and two teachers during a picnic, the Gujarat High Court has taken suo moto cognizance of the matter.
Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice Aniruddha P. Mayee presiding over the bench have called for an action taken report from the Secretary, Home Department, State of Gujarat.
The Court has also requested an affidavit from the Gazetted Officer of the Home Department, Government of Gujarat, to be submitted by January 29.
The Court’s decision was prompted by the President of the Gujarat High Court Advocates’ Association, Brijesh Trivedi, who brought the matter to the court’s attention, referencing news reports highlighting the tragedy. Expressing concern over the reported negligence in adhering to safety norms, the court emphasized that such recklessness cannot be tolerated.
“This is the most tragic incident…This can be curbed very easily, this can be managed very easily if you are following safety norms you can always avoid such incidents…This is not to be tolerated at all,” remarked Chief Justice Agarwal during the proceedings.
The cause of the incident at Harni Lake in Vadodara remains unclear. Authorities have indicated that approximately 27 individuals were on the boat during the incident.
Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gehlot confirmed the successful rescue of up to seven people who are currently receiving medical attention. Shockingly, victims were not provided with life jackets during the ill-fated boat ride.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Rajnikant Patel has entrusted the high-level probe of the incident to the Vadodara District Magistrate, with a detailed report expected within 10 days.
The Court’s proactive intervention underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.