Overview
- The fire on June 22 in Lucknow’s Aliganj area broke out in a multi‑storey building that housed a coaching centre, trapping students as thick smoke filled upper floors and forcing some to jump to escape.
- The National Human Rights Commission has issued notices to the Lucknow district magistrate and police commissioner and given officials two weeks to submit a detailed action taken report.
- A state Special Investigation Team and forensic experts are probing the cause and compliance failures, with preliminary findings pointing to an air‑conditioning duct origin, alleged illegal conversion of the residential building for commercial use, and inadequate emergency exits.
- Coverage shows inconsistent casualty counts, with some reports citing 15 deaths and others 18, and authorities have arrested building owners and suspended several municipal and safety officials as inquiries continue.
- Officials have begun inspections and closures of coaching centres for fire‑safety breaches, complainants are seeking an independent inquiry and compensation, and the NHRC has asked the Uttar Pradesh chief secretary to certify adherence to the 2024 safety rules.