A devastating fire in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of the Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Uttar Pradesh’s Jhansi claimed the lives of 10 newborns late Friday night, leaving 16 others injured and fighting for survival. Officials suspect the fire, which broke out around 10:45 pm, was caused by an electrical short circuit.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives. PM Modi, in a post shared on X via the Prime Minister’s Office, described the incident as “heartbreaking” and extended condolences to the grieving families. “The local administration, under the supervision of the state government, is making every possible effort for relief and rescue,” he added.
President Murmu also expressed her anguish, calling the tragedy “extremely heartbreaking.” In her message, she prayed for strength for the bereaved families and a speedy recovery for the injured children.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to ensure proper treatment for the injured and ordered immediate relief measures. Calling the incident “extremely sad and heartbreaking,” he instructed Divisional Commissioner Bimal Kumar Dubey and Deputy Inspector General of Police Kalanidhi Naithani to submit a report within 12 hours.
District Magistrate Avinash Kumar stated that rescue efforts began swiftly after the fire was reported. While the cause of the blaze is under investigation, initial reports suggest it was triggered by a short circuit in the oxygen-rich NICU environment, which allowed the fire to spread rapidly.
The tragedy has drawn national attention, with leaders across the political spectrum expressing condolences and emphasizing the need for improved safety measures in hospitals. Rescue operations continue as officials work to address the aftermath of this horrific incident.