Fire Destroys Case Files at Patna Court Complex

PATNA: A major fire broke out at the office of Judicial Magistrate First Class, located inside the Court Complex, on Saturday morning, destroying several important case files and legal records before the court commenced its proceedings. The blaze, suspected to have been triggered by a short circuit, was brought under control after hours of struggle by the firefighting team. According to court officials, the fire erupted on the first floor of the new building at around 9.50 am, just minutes before the court was scheduled to open. Since no judicial officers or court employees were present inside the office at the time, the incident did not result in any injuries, averting what could have been a major tragedy. Soon after the fire was reported, two fire tenders rushed to the spot and managed to douse the flames after sustained efforts. Thick smoke and flames engulfed the office, reducing several case files, legal documents and old records to ashes. The incident caused panic across the court premises, with court employees, police personnel and advocates gathered outside the office as firefighting operations continued. Initial findings suggest that a short circuit may have caused the blaze, though authorities are investigating all possible angles. Following the incident, the court administration launched an assessment of the damage and began preparing a detailed inventory of the files and documents destroyed in the fire. Officials are also carrying out a technical inspection of the electrical system, including old wiring, to ascertain the exact cause of the incident. Investigators are identifying and questioning people who were present near the office when the fire broke out as part of the inquiry. In view of the incident, hearings scheduled for Saturday have been postponed.