New Delhi, November 16: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic fire at Jhansi Medical College in Uttar Pradesh. The Prime Minister also offered Rs 50,000 each to those injured in the incident.

In his message of condolence, PM Modi described the fire as "heart-wrenching" and extended his deepest sympathies to the families of the ten children who tragically lost their lives. He also assured that rescue and relief operations are continuing under the supervision of the Uttar Pradesh government.

The incident occurred late on Friday night when a fire broke out in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Maharani Laxmibai Medical College. The fire is believed to have been caused by a short circuit in an oxygen concentrator, and it quickly spread due to the high oxygen levels in the NICU, where more than 50 newborns were being treated. Ten newborns died in the fire, and several others were injured.

The parents of the deceased babies have been desperately seeking answers, with some still searching for their missing children. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh each for the families of the deceased newborns. Additionally, Rs 50,000 will be provided to the families of the injured from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund. CM Adityanath has ordered a report on the incident to be submitted within 12 hours.

Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak confirmed that DNA tests would be conducted to identify three of the deceased newborns, with seven already identified. Several others suffered burn injuries in the fire.

President Droupadi Murmu expressed her sorrow over the incident, calling it "heartbreaking," and offered condolences to the grieving families while praying for the swift recovery of the injured infants.

Political leaders from various parties, including Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, also condemned the incident, calling for accountability and justice.

The fire has left a community in shock, with families devastated by the loss of their children and the ongoing search for answers.

Fire Tragedy at UP Hospital Claims 10 Newborns, Rescue Efforts Continue for 16 Others