Bangladesh nationals killed as fire tears through Kolkata hotel building

Nine people, including seven Bangladesh nationals, were killed early Wednesday when a fire tore through a hotel in a five-story building on Mirza Ghalib Street near New Market in Kolkata, according to the provided report.

Four of the Bangladesh victims were members of the same family. Several others were injured. Many of those staying in the building had traveled from Bangladesh to Kolkata for medical treatment.

West Bengal chief minister Suvendu Adhikari expressed grief over the deaths, and authorities formed a five-member special investigation committee to examine the fire.

The state government said it would pursue arrests and strict legal action against unauthorized hotels and guest houses operating without required permits, licenses, and fire safety clearances.

An official with the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Kolkata visited injured victims at a hospital to check on their treatment and condition.