Should Action Be Taken Against Kozhikode Mayor After Massive Fire?
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Synopsis
A massive fire in Kozhikode has sparked outrage, with BJP leader K. Surendran demanding accountability from local authorities. The Mayor and officials face scrutiny for alleged safety violations. As investigations commence, protests are planned by opposition parties. What actions will be taken in response to this alarming incident?
Key Takeaways
- Kozhikode Corporation faces scrutiny over safety violations.
- Former BJP leader K. Surendran demands accountability from officials.
- Judicial probe requested into the series of fires.
- No injuries reported in the recent fire incident.
- Protests planned by opposition parties against local authorities.
Kozhikode, May 19 (NationPress) The former President of BJP's Kerala unit, K. Surendran, has called for accountability from the Kozhikode Mayor and other officials, stating they should face repercussions for the significant fire that erupted at a three-story wholesale textile establishment the prior evening.
This structure is owned by the Kozhikode Corporation, currently under the governance of the CPI-M, highlighting the seriousness of the alleged violations raised by both the BJP and Congress.
"The Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and the Secretary must take responsibility for the incident since the Kozhikode Corporation issued a license for this building, which fails to meet safety and security standards," asserted Surendran.
"Over the years, Kozhikode has experienced around 15 fires, and each time, only promises are made without any real action taken. We demand a judicial investigation into the fires that have occurred in this historic city,” he further emphasized.
The fire was initially detected at approximately 5 p.m. on the second floor of a shopping complex that includes the textile store.
Eyewitnesses reported smoke and flames pouring from the upper levels, rapidly consuming the entire building.
Fortunately, police confirmed that there were no injuries or fatalities. The fully air-conditioned structure posed a considerable challenge to the fire and rescue teams trying to assess the situation.
Surendran criticized the delay, stating that it was unacceptable that it took over 10 hours to control the blaze.
“It’s troubling that even the state Cabinet Ministers from Kozhikode have remained silent on the incident. This alone indicates deeper issues within the Kozhikode Corporation,” he alleged.
Kozhikode Corporation Mayor Bina Phillip stated they would convene a full council meeting to evaluate the situation and take action against any officials found negligent in their responsibilities.
Meanwhile, on Monday, the fire inspection unit and police initiated their investigations, confirming that a thorough fire audit of the building had not been conducted.
The opposition parties, Congress and BJP, are formulating plans for a series of protests against the authorities.
Point of View
The incident in Kozhikode highlights the need for stringent safety regulations and accountability among local authorities. As citizens demand answers, it is crucial for government officials to act decisively to restore public trust and ensure safety in the community.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire in Kozhikode?
The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation, but it broke out on the second floor of a shopping complex housing a textile store.
Were there any injuries reported?
Fortunately, there were no injuries or casualties reported during the incident.
What actions are being demanded from authorities?
BJP leader K. Surendran has called for accountability from the Kozhikode Mayor and other officials, demanding a judicial probe into the fire incidents.
How long did it take to control the fire?
It reportedly took over 10 hours for the fire to be extinguished.
What steps are being taken to investigate the incident?
The fire inspection wing and police have begun their investigations, focusing on the lack of a proper fire audit for the building.
