Have Police Made a Third Arrest in the Kolkata Hotel Fire?
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Synopsis
The Kolkata hotel fire tragedy has led to a third arrest, sparking outrage over safety protocols. This incident exposes the grave lapses in fire safety regulations and emergency preparedness, as officials promise accountability and justice for the victims' families.
Key Takeaways
- Third arrest made in the Kolkata hotel fire case.
- 15 lives lost due to the devastating incident.
- Investigation reveals serious safety lapses.
- Government pledges compensation for victims' families.
- Emergency evacuation routes were blocked during renovations.
Kolkata, May 2 (NationPress) On Friday, police executed their third arrest related to the catastrophic fire incident at a hotel situated on Madan Mohan Burman Street in Kolkata, which tragically resulted in 15 fatalities.
The individual apprehended has been identified as Khurshid Alam, who was engaged in renovation work at the hotel.
According to a source within the Kolkata Police, the blaze ignited in the section of the hotel where renovation and expansion efforts were ongoing.
Khurshid will be presented at a lower court in Kolkata, where the public prosecutor intends to request his police custody.
Earlier, on Thursday morning, law enforcement officials took hotel owner Akash Chawla and manager Gaurav Kapur into custody. Both individuals were brought before a lower court in Kolkata on Thursday afternoon and have been remanded to police custody until May 8.
Preliminary investigations have indicated that, aside from insufficient fire safety measures, significant oversights were evident in the hotel’s emergency evacuation plans and ventilation systems.
Local residents have voiced their concerns, alleging that despite numerous complaints regarding illegal construction at the hotel previously lodged, neither the Kolkata Municipal Corporation nor local law enforcement acted to avert this tragic event.
In response to the calamity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have pledged compensation for the families of the deceased and injured.
The Chief Minister has asserted that stringent actions will be taken against those accountable for the fire.
State Fire Minister Sujit Bose acknowledged that the hotel’s fire alarm system was non-operational, and crucial fire extinguishing equipment failed to function at the time of the incident.
A representative from the State Fire Services Department stated, "The hotel was equipped with only one entry and exit point. The emergency exit was obstructed by construction materials intended for expansion and renovation. Had the emergency exit been usable, the casualty count could have been significantly lower."
Point of View
We emphasize the need for comprehensive investigations. The loss of life underscores the critical importance of stringent fire safety regulations and swift governmental action to prevent such calamities in the future. Our commitment remains with the victims and their families as we advocate for justice and accountability.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the hotel fire in Kolkata?
The fire broke out during renovation work, with investigations revealing inadequate fire safety measures and blocked emergency exits.
How many people were arrested in connection with the fire?
As of now, three individuals have been arrested, including the hotel owner, manager, and a contractor involved in renovations.
What actions are being taken by the government?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee have announced compensation for victims' families and promised strict action against those responsible.
Were there any previous complaints about the hotel?
Yes, local residents had lodged complaints regarding illegal constructions at the hotel, which went unaddressed by authorities.
What has the Fire Minister said about safety measures?
Fire Minister Sujit Bose confirmed that the hotel's fire alarm was non-functional, and fire extinguishing equipment failed during the incident.
