9 children among 28 dead in fire in Gujarat Gaming Zone, SIT investigation ordered

28 people, including nine children, died in a massive fire in a play area in Rajkot, Gujarat, on Saturday. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel visited the scene of the accident on Nana Mava Road and a hospital where the injured are being treated on Sunday morning.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (ACP) Vinayak Patel said DNA samples had been collected to identify the bodies of the victims.

“The bodies are charred beyond recognition and we have completed the collection of DNA samples from the bodies and the relatives who claimed them so that the identities of the dead can be ascertained,” he said, adding that the three people injured in the incident were now in stable condition.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the fire has been asked to submit a report within 72 hours, even as rescue operations at the site are still ongoing.

Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi held a meeting with the five-member SIT and the local administration early Sunday morning. The SIT is currently examining the departments responsible for the construction of the gaming zone.

The owner and manager of the TRP gaming area, where the fire broke out on Saturday night, have been arrested.

Indian Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya said that 30 intensive care beds had been prepared at AIIMS Rajkot to treat the burn victims. “AIIMS has also been instructed to provide comprehensive assistance,” he said.

According to the fire department, the cause of the major fire has not yet been determined.

Following the fire, the Gujarat Police instructed its senior police officers to inspect all gambling zones in the state and close down those operating without fire safety permits.

On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was “extremely shocked” by the tragedy.

“I am deeply shocked by the fire accident in Rajkot. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. Prayers for the injured. The local administration is working to provide all possible help to those affected,” he said in a post on X.