DEATH TOLL RISES TO 27 IN KOLKATA WAREHOUSE FIRE

At least 27 people were killed in a fire at twin warehouses in Kolkata's Anandapur area, sparking a political row over the state government's response.

- SUPROTIM MUKHERJEE

A devastating fire at twin warehouses in Kolkata’s Anandapur area on Republic Day has claimed at least 27 lives, with 27 people still reported missing, turning the tragedy into a political flashpoint over alleged government apathy and delayed response.

Four days after the blaze, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is yet to visit the site, drawing sharp criticism from the Opposition.

Fire Services Minister Sujit Bose faced protests from BJP workers when he reached the spot nearly 32 hours after the fire broke out. Protesters raised ‘go back’ slogans, leading to a brief scuffle with Trinamool supporters before police restored order.

Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, who visited the area on Thursday, accused the Chief Minister of neglect despite living about 10 km away. “Mamata Banerjee’s residence is barely 10 kilometres from the spot, yet she did not come. This government feels no responsibility," he alleged.