Massive Fire Guts Punjab-Haryana High Court Rooms

Chandigarh: A major fire broke out at the Punjab and Haryana High Court premises late Monday night, causing significant damage to two key sections of the building. The fire, which started around 11:45 PM, gutted the Ladies Bar Room and Room Number 4 entirely, leading to an estimated loss of ₹35 lakh. Thankfully, no casualties or injuries have been reported.

According to preliminary reports, security staff noticed smoke emerging from the western wing of the court complex. Firefighters were alerted immediately, and several fire tenders rushed to the spot. However, by the time the flames were brought under control, important legal records, furniture, electronic systems, and wooden panels had been reduced to ashes.

The Ladies Bar Room, which serves as a designated area for women advocates, and Room Number 4, used for document storage and coordination, were completely destroyed in the incident. Witnesses said flames reached up to the ceiling and burned uncontrollably for nearly 90 minutes. Fire officials had to break into the rooms to douse the flames, as thick smoke made it difficult to access the affected areas.

Senior advocates, judicial staff, and administrative officials visited the site early Tuesday morning to assess the damage. Many expressed concern over the safety mechanisms in place, especially considering the historical and functional significance of the high court building. An official from the fire department stated that a short circuit appears to be the likely cause, but a thorough forensic investigation has been initiated.

The High Court Bar Association has called for a review of fire safety protocols and demanded immediate restoration of the affected areas to ensure the regular functioning of legal proceedings. Several female advocates were seen emotionally shaken, citing that the Ladies Bar Room was not only a work space but also a place of personal comfort and security within the busy court environment.

Authorities have assured that the court’s overall functioning will not be affected and alternate arrangements are being made. Meanwhile, restoration work is expected to begin once the fire department and forensic teams conclude their inspections.