How many laws were violated by Salman Khan fans bursting firecrackers during Tiger 3 in Malegaon cinema?
The celebration of Salman Khan's cc release on Diwali took a dangerous turn as videos of fans gathered at Mohan Cinema in Malegaon, Maharashtra captured the frenzied crowd igniting firecrackers inside the cinema. Here’s a full list of laws they’ve violated and offences they’ve committed.
Salman Khan Fans bursted fire crackers inside the cinema hall in Malegaon which caused stampede like situation.
— Rishi Bagree (@rishibagree) November 13, 2023
pic.twitter.com/LA0uaye96z
Aatishbazi inside theater💥 this kind of celebration happens only for #SalmanKhan 's film🔥 #Tiger3 #Tiger3Review pic.twitter.com/LiMnFMSedW
— Devil V!SHAL (@VishalRC007) November 12, 2023
The now viral videos highlight several potential violations of laws and offences, ranging from endangering lives and mischief by fire to disobedience of court orders that include:
-
Endangering Life and Personal Safety (IPC Section 336)
The police are in the process of registering an offence under Section 336 of the Indian Penal Code, which pertains to acts endangering the life or personal safety of others. The bursting of firecrackers in a confined space could have led to a serious mishap, putting the lives of cinema-goers at risk.
-
Mischief by Fire or Explosive Substance (IPC Section 435)
Another offence under investigation is covered by Section 435 of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with mischief by fire or explosive substances with the intent to cause damage. The act of setting off fireworks indoors, especially within the confines of a theatre, can be considered as mischief with potential for damage.
-
Violation of Supreme Court order on firecrackers
The Supreme Court's November 7 order, emphasising the ban on firecrackers containing barium salts, adds another layer of legal scrutiny to the incident. If the firecrackers used by Salman Khan's fans violated this order, it could lead to legal consequences. The court's directive was for a firecracker ban in all states.
-
Disobedience of Public Servant's Order (IPC Section 188)
Section 188 of the IPC, which criminalises deliberate disobedience of an order duly promulgated by a public servant empowered by law, may also come into play. Supreme Court directives on fireworks aside, If there were specific guidelines or orders related to firecracker usage inside cinemas, the fans' actions could be construed as a deliberate disobedience, warranting legal consequences.
-
Potential Violation of Explosive Substances Act
Moreover, the police are exploring charges under the Explosive Substances Act, indicating that the act of setting off fireworks may be viewed as a violation related to explosive substances. The potential gravity of this offence is evident in the heightened legal scrutiny it attracts.
-
Violation of Fire Safety Regulations
The act of bursting firecrackers inside an indoor cinema, as shown in the video, violates fire safety regulations. Cinemas and indoor spaces are generally equipped with electronic items and surrounded by fabric, making them susceptible to fire hazards.
-
Cumulative Punishment for Act Done/Abetment (IPC Section 112)
A case has been registered against Mohan Theatre under Section 112 of the IPC in Chavani police station for abetting the violations committed during the incident as well.
A grim reminder
The infamous tragedy at Uphaar Cinema, Delhi in 1997 - where 57 people died in a cinema-hall fire - rings sonorous in the aftermath of this recent incident and serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of lax adherence to safety regulations.
ALSO READ: Trial By Fire On Netflix Review: Rajshri Deshpande shines in tragically unsettling historical drama
Despite the Uphaar disaster leading to recriminations and increased safety measures in Delhi, the incident at Mohan Cinema underscores that the rest of the country may still be unaware or unconcerned about potential fire traps in cinemas.
I'm hearing about fireworks inside theaters during Tiger3. This is dangerous. Let's enjoy the film without putting ourselves and others at risk. Stay safe.
— Salman Khan (@BeingSalmanKhan) November 13, 2023
It's important to note that the identities of the accused individuals are yet to be established, and further investigation is needed to determine the specific charges and applicable laws.