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Kolkata Warehouse Fire Toll Reaches 21 With Dozens Still Missing, Owner Held

Investigators are turning to DNA tests following reports of missing fire-safety clearances.

Overview

  • Police say 21 bodies or body parts have been recovered and about 28 people remain unaccounted for as searches continue.
  • Warehouse owner Gangadhar Das has been arrested on charges of causing death by negligence and remanded to police custody until February 4.
  • Courts have cleared DNA collection and profiling to identify severely charred remains, with samples taken from relatives.
  • Fire officials report the facilities lacked mandatory safety clearance and stored highly combustible dry goods and beverages.
  • The state announced ₹10 lakh ex gratia per victim and imposed prohibitory orders near the site, while Wow! Momo pledged ₹10 lakh, lifetime monthly salary, and education support; an eyewitness alleged response delays due to jurisdiction confusion.