JUDGMENT :

VIKRAM NATH, J.

1. The incident which took place in Shrey Hospital on the fateful morning of 6th of August 2020, was one which shook our conscience. The fire which took place in the COVID hospital almost instantaneously killing those in the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital and injuring many more, requires serious investigation. It was in order to ascertain the truth behind such incident that the Commission of Inquiry was appointed by the State Government under the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952. When an incident, as shocking as this takes place, it is in the interest of the public at large, that the truth is ascertained as early as possible. Timely ascertainment of the truth is a part of the process of delivery of justice and is an important component for granting closure to the family members of the victims. Any delay in this regard and prolonging the entire process would only exacerbate their suffering, all the more when the Supreme Court is regularly monitoring the inquiry as also the role of the State Government in Suo Motu Writ Petition (Civil) No.07 of 2020.

2