Kerala HC suggests CBI probe in Puttingal fire mishap

Ernakulam (Kerala): The Kerala High Court on Tuesday suggested that there should be a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry in the Puttingtal temple fire mishap, which claimed at least 109 lives. While observing that the Puttingal temple fire tragedy should be inquired into by the CBI, the court asked the state government to take strict action against those responsible for the April 10 mishap. It also stated that Kerala's Revenue Department, along with the temple authorities, is also responsible for the mishap. The High Court has also asked the police and the district administration to file separate affidavits on the matter. Meanwhile, the seven officials of the temple trust, who had surrendered before the Kerala Crime Branch, have been arrested. The seven officials, including the Puttingal temple's president, secretary and treasurer had earlier surrendered. After the tragedy, the officials had gone off the radar following which fingers were pointed at the temple committee for violating the guidelines. The temple authorities had gone ahead with a competitive pyrotechnics display despite the denial of permission from the Kollam district administration. The police had registered a case of attempt to murder against the five officials. Huge quantity of crackers, which were kept to be burst to mark the conclusion of the Meena-Bharani festival, exploded killing over 40 persons instantly, maiming many more and causing extensive damage to the nearby buildings.