Lucknow Fire: 15 Dead, Rajnath Singh Vows Accountability Amid Investigation
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has assured that those responsible for the fire tragedy in Lucknow will face accountability. The blaze, which occurred on Monday afternoon at a coaching centre in the Aliganj area, claimed 15 lives and injured seven others.
Upon arriving in Lucknow, Singh visited the incident site and received a briefing from Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak. He later went to King George's Medical University (KGMU) to check on the injured and instructed doctors to provide the best possible care.
Speaking to reporters, Singh said Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had assured a thorough investigation. “Responsibility will be fixed for those accountable, and all necessary action will be taken,” Singh stated. He described the incident as deeply unfortunate and offered condolences to the victims' families.
The Lucknow city unit of the BJP reported that Singh and Adityanath discussed the incident over the phone. Adityanath informed Singh that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to probe the fire and is expected to submit its report within seven days. The state government has announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the seriously injured. Officials have been directed to ensure proper medical treatment and support for the injured.
The fire engulfed a three-story commercial building on Usha Mehta Marg. Most of the victims were trapped on the second floor, where students were attending classes at an animation centre. According to officials, preliminary information suggests the fire may have started in the building's air conditioning duct, and the smoke caused suffocation due to the lack of a proper exit route. Possible building standard lapses are also under investigation.
Eyewitnesses reported that several people jumped from the building as it was completely consumed by flames. The structure also housed a pet clinic on the premises. The administration continues relief and rescue operations.
