Delhi Fire Tragedy: PM Modi Condoles Loss of 21 Lives, Announces Ex-Gratia

By Mahima Katal

New Delhi, June 3: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed grief over the loss of lives in the devastating fire that swept through a bed-and-breakfast facility in South Delhi's Malviya Nagar area, killing at least 21 people and injuring several others.

In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families and announced financial assistance for the victims.

"Deeply saddened by the loss of lives due to the fire tragedy in Delhi's Malviya Nagar. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover soon," the Prime Minister said.

He also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each deceased victim and Rs 50,000 for those injured in the incident.

The fire broke out on Wednesday morning at Flourish Stay B&B in the Hauz Rani area of Malviya Nagar. According to officials, more than 40 people were rescued from the smoke-filled building, while at least 21 were declared dead after being taken to hospitals.

Authorities said several of the victims were foreign nationals, primarily from Central Asian and African countries. A number of the injured remain in critical condition.

Rescue operations involving teams from the Delhi Fire Services, Delhi Police and disaster response personnel continued for several hours before the building was cleared and cordoned off for investigation.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined. Officials have launched a probe into the incident.

The tragedy has triggered questions regarding fire safety compliance and emergency preparedness in commercial establishments operating in densely populated residential localities across the national capital.