Sun Nov 17 11:09:14 UTC 2024: ## Jhansi Medical College Fire Kills 10 Infants, Sparking Outrage
**Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India** – A devastating fire at the Lakshmi Bai Medical College’s children’s ward in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, claimed the lives of ten infants on Friday night. The incident has sent shockwaves across the state, leaving many more children injured and fighting for their lives.
The fire broke out late Friday night, trapping dozens of infants. While rescue teams managed to evacuate over 50 children, 37 sustained burn injuries. The condition of several critically injured children remains precarious. Tragically, three of the deceased children were so badly burned that their parents are unable to identify them, leading to calls for DNA testing.
The incident has sparked widespread anger and protests. Grieving parents have staged demonstrations outside the medical college, demanding accountability for the tragedy and expressing frustration over the lack of information and alleged negligence that contributed to the disaster.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered a swift investigation, demanding a report within 24 hours and promising strict action against those responsible. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak has been in Jhansi since Saturday morning, coordinating efforts and meeting with hospital administration and officials.
The state government has announced compensation of ₹500,000 (approximately $6,000 USD) for the families of each deceased child and ₹50,000 (approximately $600 USD) for those injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also pledged ₹200,000 (approximately $2,400 USD) in financial aid to each bereaved family.
Ambuj Pandey reporting from Jhansi.
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