Bengaluru: CID has been entrusted with the investigation of the Attibele fire incident. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that as already announced, the family of the deceased will be given Rs 5 lakh by the government and the medical expenses of the injured will be borne by the government.
Speaking to the media after visiting and inspecting the scene of the fire at Attibele on Sunday. CM Siddaramaiah said, The fire incident took place on October 8 between 3.15 pm and 3.30 pm. This is a very unfortunate incident. Ramuswamy Reddy was engaged in the business of selling firecrackers after obtaining a license. Firecrackers arrived in trucks from Tamilnadu at 3 pm on Saturday and the exact reason of how the fire caught on the firecrackers is not known. Officials said on inspection here, it was found that no security measures had been taken in the warehouse where the explosives were sold.
The license was renewed in the month of September on 13 September 2023. Valid till 31 October 2028. Another license will be valid on 18 January 2021 till 28 January 2026. He explained that the owner of the place is Jayamma, wife of late Sidda Reddy, Anil Reddy Bin Sidda Reddy.
The place of the warehouse is very narrow, in which 14 people died. All are from Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri in Tamil Nadu. Most of them are students. They came to earn money for studying during holidays. There are no permanent employees except one manager. No safety measures required for explosives have been taken. Check whether the warehouse is authorized or not. There is a 200 foot warehouse at the rear. Fire extinguishers are not installed anywhere. He said that on the whole, the negligence of the license holders is evident.
We will investigate the incident and take action against the culprits. It is a big tragedy that 14 people died. Condolences to the bereaved family and may the departed soul rest in peace. The Chief Minister said that he would pray to God to give strength to all their families to bear the pain.
Ramuswamy Reddy, Naveen, Anil Reddy have been arrested. A case has been registered. An FIR has also been registered under sections 285, 286, 337, 338, 437, 304. He said that they will be investigated and action will be taken against them.
When the district collector was inquired about, he said that the fire brigade and police had given an objection letter. The District Collector had to visit in person. Those who issued the objection letter should have looked at the requirements of the Explosives Act. Because the license is issued under the Explosives Act. District Collectors should also inspect the place. He said that there should be a proper investigation in this regard.
He replied to a question that there was a license to sell 1000 kg, but maybe not a license to store. As the festival of Diwali is near, the necessary measures will be discussed and taken. CM Siddaramaiah said that the incident will be investigated. The Health Minister of Tamil Nadu has also arrived and visited the hospital. He said that they have also announced a compensation of Rs 3 lakh each.