A devastating fire broke out at the budget-friendly Shika Inn hotel in Kolkata early Wednesday, claiming the lives of nine individuals, including a child. Authorities, including West Bengal fire services director Anuj Sharma, stated that the blaze is suspected to have been triggered by a faulty air conditioner. The situation turned dire as thick, suffocating smoke quickly engulfed the premises, trapping many guests in their rooms and bathrooms before firefighters could gain access via ladders and windows.

Preliminary reports indicate that some of the victims were Bangladeshi citizens who had traveled to the city for medical care. Survivors, such as Atiyar Rehman, have since raised serious concerns regarding the hotel's lack of adequate fire safety measures, highlighting a broader, recurring issue of negligence in Indian building standards. As forensic teams examine the scene and local officials investigate potential safety lapses, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims while local authorities focus on supporting the injured.