Union Home Minister Amit Shah has launched a sharp political attack on the state government following a devastating fire that killed 27 people at a food processing facility. Describing the incident as a grave governance failure, Shah alleged that corruption and weak enforcement of safety regulations were directly responsible for the tragedy.
The blaze, which broke out in a densely populated commercial area, spread rapidly due to flammable materials and limited emergency access. Firefighters worked for several hours to bring the flames under control, but many workers were trapped inside the building, leading to heavy loss of life.
The incident has shaken the region, with families of victims mourning loved ones and demanding accountability. Local residents expressed anger over what they described as repeated negligence and ignored warnings regarding safety compliance.
Addressing a public gathering, Shah said the fire was not an accident but the result of systemic corruption. He claimed that safety rules were compromised through bribery and administrative indifference, allowing hazardous operations to continue unchecked.
According to him, authorities failed to conduct proper inspections and overlooked violations that should have triggered immediate action. Shah argued that ordinary citizens ultimately pay the price when governance collapses and enforcement becomes selective.
His remarks come amid heightened political tensions, with elections approaching in the state. The tragedy has quickly become a central political issue, with opposition leaders accusing the ruling administration of prioritising power over public safety.
The state government, however, has rejected the allegations, stating that investigations are ongoing and that conclusions should not be drawn prematurely. Officials have promised strict action against those found responsible and announced compensation for victims’ families.
Independent investigators are currently examining the site, reviewing fire safety clearances, electrical systems and building approvals. Preliminary findings suggest that inadequate fire exits, overcrowding and insufficient safety equipment may have worsened the disaster.
Experts say such incidents underline the urgent need for stricter industrial safety norms and regular audits, particularly in high-density urban zones. They warn that without systemic reform, similar tragedies may continue to occur.
As political exchanges intensify, families of the victims continue to seek justice and lasting reform. Beyond political blame, many citizens hope the tragedy leads to stronger enforcement, transparent inspections and meaningful safeguards to prevent future loss of life.
