KOLKATA, India, April 30: A devastating fire broke out at the six-storey Rituraj Hotel in Kolkata's Burrabazar area on Tuesday evening, resulting in at least 14 deaths, including two children. The blaze, which began around 8:15 p.m. near the kitchen on the first floor, rapidly engulfed the building, trapping approximately 50 people inside. Most victims succumbed to asphyxiation, with many found in the stairwell. One individual reportedly died after jumping from the roof in panic.​

Firefighters rescued at least 25 individuals from rooms, balconies, and the roof using hydraulic ladders. The fire was brought under control after a prolonged operation involving six fire engines. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities have formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to examine the incident and assess the hotel's compliance with fire safety regulations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and announced an ex-gratia payment of ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund to the families of the deceased. He also extended ₹50,000 to those seriously injured. 

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited the site and announced a compensation of ₹10 lakh to the families of the deceased, along with government jobs to one member of each affected family.

The incident has raised concerns about fire safety standards in commercial buildings in densely populated areas. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire and to ensure accountability for the safety lapses.