In the aftermath of the devastating fire in south Kolkata’s Anandapur area, the administration has decided to conduct DNA testing to identify the recovered body parts.
According to police, the DNA mapping process is likely to begin as early as Thursday and is being considered the most crucial step in establishing the identities of the victims.
Police officials confirmed that 21 body parts have been recovered from the site so far, including one partially burnt body and 20 skeletons. Following the incident, families have lodged missing complaints for 28 individuals, raising fears among investigating agencies that the death toll may increase further. Preparations are currently underway to collect DNA samples from the ashes and burnt remains for scientific identification.
To maintain law and order and ensure that investigation and rescue operations proceed smoothly, Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) has been imposed in the area since midnight on Wednesday. Under this provision, the gathering of five or more people within a 100-metre radius of the accident site has been prohibited. Entry of the general public into the area has also been strictly restricted.
Administrative sources said the decision was taken suo motu following an application by the Officer-in-Charge of Narendrapur Police Station. The move was prompted by concerns that evidence could be tampered with, the investigation obstructed, or rescue operations disrupted. Authorities have also cited the possibility of unrest or disturbance of peace in the area.
Also Read: Kolkata fire: Death toll rises to 16; more casualties feared
In connection with the incident, the warehouse owner, Gangadhar Das, was arrested around midnight on Tuesday. Investigators have alleged that the godown lacked adequate fire safety measures, which may have worsened the impact of the blaze.
The tragedy has also triggered political activity. Sources said Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari and several BJP MLAs are expected to visit the site on Thursday afternoon. Meanwhile, the state government has announced a series of relief measures for the affected families. On Tuesday, Municipal Affairs Minister Firhad Hakim announced compensation, which was further detailed by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during a meeting in Singur on Wednesday.
The Chief Minister announced that the family of each deceased victim would receive Rs 10 lakh as compensation from the state government. In addition, the momo company that had leased the godown and the decorators’ firm involved would each provide Rs 5 lakh in compensation. Mamata also announced that one member from each bereaved family would be given employment as a civic volunteer and instructed the police to expedite the process.
According to administrative officials, the exact number of victims and their identities will become clear only after the DNA test results are available, following which further legal and administrative action will be taken.
Follow us
