Four people have been arrested after a fire at a commercial building in Lucknow’s Aliganj area claimed 18 lives.
Investigators examining the incident have alleged serious lapses in fire safety provisions at the premises and are now scrutinising the building’s approvals and safety infrastructure. The FIR alleges that the owners and operators failed to provide basic safeguards despite the risks posed to people working and visiting the premises.
The case has been registered at Aliganj Police Station against six named individuals under Sections 105, 110, 125 and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Police arrested three building owners – Ramkrishna Upadhyay, Virendra Prasad Shukla and Tushank Krishna Jaiswal. Later, Suresh Kumar Sahu, who operated a studio in the building, was also taken into custody.
FIR flags alleged fire safety violations
According to the complaint, the three-storey structure near Purania Chauraha in Sector-D housed multiple establishments. A pet shop and clinic operated on the lower floors, while a video gaming zone and 3D animation centre functioned on the second floor. An IT networking office was located on the top floor.
Investigators have alleged that the building lacked essential fire safety infrastructure. The FIR states that there were no fire safety arrangements, no emergency exit and no alternative route for evacuation during an emergency.
Officials also noted that the premises had only one entry and exit point. The complaint further mentions the absence of a smoke ventilation system and alleges that electrical installations were not maintained safely.
Victims trapped as smoke spread through building
The fire reportedly started in the pet shop and clinic around 2:30 pm. Thick smoke quickly spread through the building, trapping occupants inside.
The FIR states that animals housed in the pet shop also died in the blaze.
As smoke engulfed the premises and escape options narrowed, several people allegedly jumped from upper floors and the rooftop in an attempt to save themselves. Many suffered serious injuries.
Most of those who died were reportedly between 20 and 24 years old.
Probe underway into cause of blaze
Police had earlier named Virendra Shukla, Tushank Krishna Jaiswal, Ramkrishna Upadhyay, Suresh Kumar and other unidentified persons as accused in the case.
The complaint alleges that those responsible for the building were aware that ignoring safety requirements could put lives at risk but failed to take adequate precautions.
Authorities have launched a detailed investigation into the cause of the fire as well as the alleged violations linked to the building’s operation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced ex gratia assistance for the victims. The chief minister also returned to Lucknow after cutting short his visit to Aligarh and met those injured in the incident.