PM announces 2 lakh ex-gratia for the deceaseds' kin in Burrabazar fire

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed deep sorrow over the tragic Kolkata hotel fire that claimed at least 14 lives. Taking to social media, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) tweeted the government’s condolences and outlined the relief measures being extended to the victims and their families.

In the post, PM Modi stated, “Anguished by the loss of lives due to a fire mishap in Kolkata. Condolences to those who lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon.” The message came in the wake of the devastating fire that tore through Rituraj Hotel in Burrabazar, one of the most congested parts of the city, on Tuesday evening.

The Prime Minister also announced ex-gratia relief from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). According to the official communication, the next of kin of each deceased will receive ₹2 lakh, while those injured in the incident will receive ₹50,000. The financial support aims to provide immediate assistance to families grappling with loss and recovery.

The fire, which broke out around 7:30 pm and raged on for several hours despite the deployment of 10 fire engines, left several people trapped inside the building. 13 victims succumbed to suffocation, while one man reportedly died after falling from a ledge in an escape attempt.