Wed Jul 16 20:17:07 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and rewritten news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

The Delhi High Court has requested responses from the government and Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) regarding the deadly July 4th fire in Karol Bagh that resulted in two fatalities. This action comes after a petition filed by NGO “Kutumb” alleging negligence by the management of Vishal Mega Mart, Delhi Police, the Fire Department, and the MCD. The petition highlights potential fire safety violations and seeks a court-monitored investigation into the incident, including scrutiny of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and the role of various officials in ensuring compliance with safety protocols. The plea also calls for the closure of unlicensed commercial establishments in the area until a status report is submitted.

**News Article:**

**Delhi High Court Demands Inquiry into Deadly Karol Bagh Fire**

**New Delhi, July 17, 2025** – The Delhi High Court has intervened in the aftermath of the tragic July 4th fire at Vishal Mega Mart in Karol Bagh, which claimed the lives of two individuals. The court has issued notices to the Delhi government, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), the Delhi Fire Services, and the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), demanding a response to allegations of negligence in fire safety protocols.

The move comes following a petition filed by the NGO “Kutumb,” which alleges serious lapses in enforcement of fire safety norms by the management of Vishal Mega Mart, Delhi Police, the Fire Department, and the MCD. The petition, presented by advocate Rudra Vikram Singh, questions how commercial establishments in the densely populated Karol Bagh area were granted licenses and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) without adhering to mandatory safety standards.

The court has directed authorities to file their responses within four weeks, with the next hearing scheduled for September 24th. The petition specifically seeks a court-monitored investigation into the incident, focusing on potential violations of fire safety regulations and the accountability of officials responsible for oversight.

Key concerns raised in the petition include:

* Whether Vishal Mega Mart and surrounding businesses possessed valid NOCs.
* Identification of commercial establishments operating illegally.
* The role of MCD, Fire Services, and Police officials in failing to ensure compliance with fire safety protocols.

Furthermore, the petition calls for the immediate closure of unlicensed shopping centers, restaurants, coaching institutes, and similar entities in Karol Bagh and surrounding areas until a comprehensive status report on fire safety compliance is submitted. The High Court’s intervention underscores the growing concern over fire safety in Delhi’s crowded commercial districts and promises a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deadly Karol Bagh fire.

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