Gujarat HC Issues Notices Over Gaming Zone Closure Post Rajkot Fire

The Gujarat High Court has issued notices regarding a plea by a Surat-based gaming zone contesting its closure post the Rajkot fire incident on May 25 that claimed 27 lives. The petitioner, Lets Jump Trampoline and Adventure Pvt Ltd, argues this closure has led to severe financial losses.

The Gujarat High Court on Monday issued notices on a plea moved by a Surat-based gaming zone challenging the closure notice given to it by civic authorities following the May 25 fire at such a facility in Rajkot, which killed 27 persons.

The state authorities had closed all gaming zones following the incident, and the HC, in its May 27 order, mandated these facilities to remain shut until further notice. The petitioner, Lets Jump Trampoline and Adventure Pvt Ltd, told the court of Justice Sangeeta Vishen that it was sealed by authorities despite holding all requisite permissions.

Through its counsel Amit Thakkar, the petitioner argued that the closure notice highlighted irregularities based on flimsy grounds without offering a chance for defense. The petitioner claimed significant financial losses and an abrupt halt in operations, leading it to seek modification of the HC's order. However, their civil application was rejected on July 4, but they were permitted to contest the closure independently.

(With inputs from agencies.)