The Lahore police have registered a case against the owners and contractor of a tuition centre whose roof collapsed on Tuesday, resulting in the death of 14 children. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations Faisal Kamran confirmed to Dawn that both parties were included in the first information report (FIR), which was filed under Sections 322 (manslaughter) and 337-H (punishment for hurt by rash or negligent act) of the Pakistan Penal Code.
The FIR, available with Dawn, details how a Lahore Metropolitan Corporation official complained about the incident to police after reaching the site around 5:15 PM. The complainant reported that children were buried under rubble following the roof collapse at the private tuition centre, where 14 deaths and six injuries were found.
The FIR reveals that the tuition centre was operating in a house owned by individuals identified as Rehan, Faizan, Usman, and Umar. Rehan’s wife was also involved in teaching within the center and sustained an injury during the incident. The FIR alleges that the negligence of these owners and the contractor Umair, along with their improper handling of soil onto the dilapidated roof led to its collapse.
On Tuesday, two individuals, including the property owner, were taken into custody as part of the initial investigation by Lahore police. DIG Operations Faisal Kamran stated that the construction contractor was also among those detained. The Punjab Chief Minister directed the police and district government authorities to determine the responsibility of those responsible for the roof collapse and the resulting deaths, setting the stage for potential criminal proceedings.
Source: Original report
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