In an unexpected twist to the Vijayawada fire mishap case, the Andhra Pradesh High Court on Tuesday issued a stay order against the arrest of Dr. Ramesh, and further questioned the authorities about their role in letting the place function as COVID centre without inspection.
The quash petition of Dr. Ramesh, the alleged prime accused in the case, was heard in the High Court. Upon hearing the arguments of both the parties, the bench has issued an interim order asking the authorities not to take further action against the doctor and the hospital chairman.
Subsequently, following the hearing in the court, the bench asked as to why did the collector, sub-collector and DMHO allow Swarna Palace to function as a quarantine center and why were they not held accountable for the mishap. The court also clarified during the arguments that there is a fault of other officers as well, and that they should be held responsible too.
The fire mishap took place at Swarna Palace Hotel, Vijayawada, on August 9, which was managed by Ramesh Hospitals. As many as 11 patients were killed and 20 more sustained injuries in the incident. At the time of mishap, about 50 Covid-19 patients were being treated.