Deadly Lucknow Fire: 15 Killed; Probe Uncovers Land Deals Tied to Madhya Pradesh CM's Family
In a tragic incident on Monday, a massive fire engulfed a three-storey commercial building in Lucknow's Aliganj area, killing 15 people, including 11 men and four women. The victims, most of whom were employees of Head Hopper Studios, a 3D art and game development company on the second floor, were trapped as flames and smoke blocked the only exit. Firefighters had to break a side wall to begin rescue operations, but precious minutes were lost, as reported by families. Three individuals have been arrested: Ramkrishna Upadhyay (43), Virendra Prasad Shukla (62), and T K Jaiswal (31).
Records from the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) reveal that the building faced demolition proceedings a decade ago for alleged unauthorised construction, but the order was withdrawn less than two months later. The incident has reignited scrutiny of the building's regulatory history and compliance. Officials are reviewing records related to approvals, ownership changes, and enforcement actions as part of the ongoing investigation.
Meanwhile, an investigation by The Indian Express has uncovered a significant real estate acquisition spree by the family of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. Since he took oath, his family and their real estate companies have purchased 137 plots totalling 168 acres for Rs 45 crore in Ujjain, areas experiencing urban renewal and infrastructure upgrades. At least six plots have been sold subsequently. The CM's cousins, Govind Yadav and Nilesh Yadav, have been central to these land deals. Govind Yadav and associates bought 41 acres through 16 deals in Gangedi between April 2024 and July 2025, later transferring them to a builder for development. Nilesh Yadav is developing projects under the brand Sawariya.
In international news, the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) has begun reaching out to international oil companies, including Indian refiners, to resume commercial ties and restart global oil exports. This follows progress in US-Iran talks under a recent memorandum of understanding. The US Department of the Treasury has issued a temporary 60-day waiver allowing production, delivery, and sale of Iranian oil through August 21.
