An all-party meeting in the wake of the fire at Paravur’s Puttingal Devi Temple, has resolved that a complete ban on fireworks displays is unnecessary.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Chief Minister Oomen Chandy told reporters that it was decided that fireworks displays should be carried out in a controlled manner and there was no need for a complete ban.
The Hindu quoted Chandy as saying, “We will not permit competitive pyrotechnics. Firework displays using high potency crackers that generate sound beyond permissible limits will not be allowed. But, firework displays that generate colourful patterns as in laser displays will be permitted. Such displays would also be subject to close scrutiny.”
He also told reporters that there is no need for a CBI probe at the present moment. The government had earlier said that they would welcome any probe into the matter. Chief Secretary, PK Mohanty, meanwhile informed the court that the crime branch would need more time to investigate the incident. The government also told the court that the investigation should be carried out under the watch of the court and that the investigation will be carried out in a strict and transparent manner.
The TV channel Reporter quoted the Chief Minister as saying, “We will ask the central government to count this incident as a national tragedy.” He added that the government has decided to start a new relief fund for the rehabilitation of victims and for their medical expenses.
He further said that the government will seek permission from the court to conduct the Thrissur Pooram festival according to current rules and regulations. However, he added that there will not be permission for any kind of competitive fireworks.