PM Modi Announces Relief for Malviya Nagar Fire Victims
On June 3, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of Rs.2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each person who lost their life in the tragic fire incident in Malviya Nagar, South Delhi. The announcement came in response to the devastating fire that claimed 20 lives and left several others injured. In addition to compensation for the deceased, Modi stated that the injured victims would receive Rs.50,000 each to aid in their medical treatment and recovery. The Prime Minister expressed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished for the speedy recovery of those affected by the disaster.
The fire broke out in a restaurant early on the morning of June 3, 2026, reportedly due to a short circuit. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as people tried to escape, with some jumping onto mattresses laid out by locals for safety. Emergency services, including Delhi Fire Services, Delhi Police, DDMA, and CATS Ambulance teams, were mobilized immediately, helping to evacuate residents and provide urgent medical care. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Sandhu also expressed grief over the tragedy, pledging full government support to the affected families. The prompt mobilization of emergency teams was crucial in minimizing further casualties.
Government Support and Compensation Measures
Following the announcement, authorities emphasized that all necessary assistance, including medical aid, psychological support, and financial relief, would be provided to victims and their families. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and other political leaders echoed the call for timely compensation and support, urging swift action from the Delhi government. Former AAP MLA Somnath Bharti confirmed that a short circuit at around 8 AM caused the fire to spread rapidly from the kitchen to upper floors. Local residents played a key role in the initial rescue, helping several people escape before emergency services arrived.
The PMNRF ex-gratia of Rs.2 lakh for each deceased is intended to provide immediate financial relief to the families, while the Rs.50,000 allocated for the injured is to cover medical expenses. The government has also assured that investigations will be conducted to determine the exact cause of the fire and to implement preventive measures for similar establishments. The tragedy has prompted renewed calls for strict adherence to fire safety norms, regular inspection of electrical installations, and robust emergency preparedness protocols in restaurants and commercial buildings across Delhi.
This announcement underscores the government’s commitment to providing both emotional and financial support to the victims of the Malviya Nagar fire. As families cope with the sudden loss, the provision of ex-gratia funds and ongoing assistance is expected to alleviate some of the immediate burdens. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that the affected families receive prompt help and that future safety measures are enforced to prevent such devastating incidents.
