Nine Bangladeshi nationals, including six men, two women and a child, died in a fire at a hotel in a multi-storey building on Mirza Ghalib Street in Kolkata’s New Market area. The blaze was initially reported to have started on the third floor at about 4:15 a.m. Tuesday. The building housed separate hotels or guest houses on nearly every floor, and several people were rescued by firefighters.

Guests alleged that the rooms and passageways were cramped, the building had only one main entrance and exit, and no emergency evacuation system was available. Smoke filled corridors and balconies, making it difficult for people to find their way out. Some guests reportedly sheltered in bathrooms and tried to escape by breaking windows. One guest said hotel staff were not seen after the fire began and alleged inadequate firefighting arrangements.

Fire officials initially suspect a short circuit, while forensic experts are expected to visit the scene. Doctors initially believe the victims may have died from suffocation, though post-mortem examinations will determine the cause. Authorities are examining fire safety, hotel legality, permits and trade licences, while some injured people remain in critical condition.