Kolkata Police Forms SIT After Fatal Hotel Fire Kills Nine

The Kolkata Police have formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate a fire at Shika Inn hotel on Mirza Ghalib Street that occurred on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. The incident resulted in the deaths of nine people, including five Bangladeshi nationals and one Indian citizen, while the identities of three others are yet to be confirmed source.

Details of the Investigation

The SIT is led by Bhagirath Ghosh, who serves as the Assistant Commissioner of Police for the Kolkata Police Detective Department source. Approximately 60 to 80 people were rescued from the five-story building during the fire. Authorities confirmed that the hotel's fire safety clearance expired in 2022 and the building lacked working fire alarms and sprinkler systems. A police case has been registered, but the hotel owners have left the area.

Government Compensation and Support

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 2 lakh for the family of each deceased person and Rs 50,000 for the injured. The West Bengal government is also providing an additional Rs 2 lakh to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to the injured. The Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata has set up a 24/7 helpline to assist, as six other injured Bangladeshi nationals have been discharged after receiving medical care.