Wed Apr 30 07:10:00 UTC 2025: ## 14 Dead in Kolkata Hotel Fire; Blaze Now Under Control
**Kolkata, India** – A devastating fire at the Rituraj Hotel in central Kolkata claimed the lives of at least 14 people on Tuesday night. The blaze, which broke out around 8:15 pm, has since been brought under control, according to Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma. While 14 bodies have been recovered, several others were rescued from the scene. A special investigation team has been formed to determine the cause of the fire.
The incident prompted immediate outrage and calls for stricter fire safety regulations. Union Minister and State BJP President Sukanta Majumdar urged the state administration to provide aid to victims and implement stricter monitoring of fire safety measures. West Bengal Congress president Subhankar Sarkar criticized the Kolkata Corporation for what he described as a lack of safety and security measures at the hotel.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.
First Piper 