Shillong, Aug 17: A predawn blaze at Hotel Bideshini Yatri Nibas in the temple town of Tarapith, Birbhum district, West Bengal, has claimed the lives of five pilgrims from Meghalaya, including two children, and left six others injured.
The victims from Dalu in West Garo Hills have been identified as Rajendra Nath, Asha Nath, Buran Madak and their sons — 10-year-old Shivraj Madak and 8-year-old Aushnath Madak. The family was in Tarapith on a religious visit when the fire broke out in the early hours of Monday. Six other residents from West Garo Hills who were staying at the hotel were rescued and are undergoing treatment.
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma expressed profound grief and shock over the incident.
“This is an unimaginable tragedy for the families. We have lost citizens from Meghalaya, including two young children, in the most heartbreaking of circumstances. On behalf of the people of Meghalaya, I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased in this hour of grief,” the CM said.
The State Government has announced ex-gratia assistance of Rs. 2 lakh each to the next of kin of the five deceased as a mark of solidarity.
The Office of the Additional Resident Commissioner at Meghalaya House in Kolkata is in close coordination with the Birbhum District Administration. Officials said priority is being given to ascertain full details, ensure proper medical care for the injured, and facilitate the transportation of the mortal remains to Dalu.
District authorities in West Garo Hills have also been directed to provide all necessary support to the bereaved families.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by West Bengal police and fire services. The incident has cast a pall of mourning across West Garo Hills, with local leaders and residents gathering to pray for the departed souls.
