Tragic Fire in Lucknow Claims Lives: FIR Filed Against Building Owners

A tragic fire in Lucknow's Aliganj area has resulted in the deaths of at least 18 individuals, prompting an FIR against the building's owners. The incident, which occurred on Monday, has raised serious concerns about fire safety regulations, as the building reportedly lacked essential safety measures. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities looking into the circumstances surrounding the blaze and the negligence of the owners. Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Adityanath have expressed their condolences and announced assistance for the victims. This incident highlights the urgent need for stricter enforcement of safety standards in commercial buildings.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 23, 2026, 11:33 IST

FIR Registered Following Lucknow Fire Incident

A screengrab image of the accident site(Photo: X)

New Delhi, June 23: An FIR has been filed against the proprietors of a commercial establishment and others related to the tragic fire incident that occurred in the Aliganj area of Lucknow on Monday evening. The blaze resulted in the deaths of at least 18 individuals, with many others suffering injuries. Most of the deceased were reportedly aged between 20 and 24 years.

The FIR names six individuals and has been registered at the Aliganj Police Station under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 105, 110, 125, and 3(5).

Three of the building's owners—Ramkrishna Upadhyay, Virendra Prasad Shukla, and Tushank Krishna Jaiswal—have been apprehended. Shortly thereafter, police confirmed the arrest of a fourth suspect, Suresh Kumar Sahu, who operates the studio.

The three-story structure, situated in Sector-D near Purania Chauraha, contained a pet shop and clinic on the ground and first floors, a video gaming zone and 3D animation center on the second floor, and an IT networking office on the top floor. The fire reportedly ignited around 2:30 P.M. in the pet shop and clinic, rapidly filling the building with dense smoke. Tragically, the animals trapped in the pet shop also perished in the flames.

The FIR indicates that the building was devoid of essential fire safety measures and emergency evacuation routes. The complaint highlights that there were no fire safety provisions in place, nor any emergency exits or alternative escape paths.

Investigators have pointed out that the building had only one entry and exit point, lacked a smoke ventilation system, and had electrical installations that were allegedly maintained unsafely.

Previously, police had identified building owner Virendra Shukla, Tushank Krishna Jaiswal, pet shop owner Ramkrishna Upadhyay, Suresh Kumar, and other unidentified individuals as suspects. The FIR claims that the owners and managers willfully disregarded safety regulations, fully aware that such negligence could jeopardize lives.

The fire spread quickly throughout the building, trapping students and visitors inside. As smoke filled the premises and escape routes became blocked, several individuals reportedly leaped from upper floors and the rooftop in a desperate bid for safety, sustaining serious injuries in the process.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have both expressed their sorrow over the loss of life and announced financial assistance for the victims. The chief minister also truncated his visit to Aligarh to return to Lucknow and meet the injured at the hospital.

Authorities have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the fire's cause and the alleged safety violations.