Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav is set to arrive in Indore shortly to meet survivors and families devastated by a massive fire at a residential building near Bengali Square. The blaze, which erupted early Wednesday morning, killed eight people, including three children, and left several others injured.
Tragic Loss of Eight Lives
The fire broke out around 3:30–4:00 am at Arham Bhavan in Brajeshwari Annexe Colony, close to Bengali Square. It originated from an explosion at an electric vehicle (EV) charging point outside the three-storey house. Flames spread rapidly, fuelled by multiple LPG cylinder blasts and inflammable materials inside.
Victims Identified
Among the deceased are Manoj Pugalia (65), a rubber businessman, his daughter-in-law Simran Pugalia (30), Vijay Sethia (65), his wife Suman Sethia (60), their relative Tinu (35), nephew Chhotu Sethia (22), and grandchildren Rashi Sethia (12) and Tanay (8). Manoj Pugalia's wife Sunita and sons Saurabh and Harshit (some reports mention Babu or others) escaped with injuries and are receiving treatment.
Leaders Offer Condolences
Several political figures rushed to console the bereaved families on Wednesday itself. State Urban Development Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya visited the site and survivors, calling the incident an alarming wake-up call for EV safety. Other BJP and Congress leaders also paid respects at the residence.
CM Announces Probe
Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav described the tragedy as heartbreaking and a “new challenge” in the shift to electric vehicles. He has ordered a systematic investigation by experts from Bhopal, with instructions for a detailed probe into the cause. Officials are examining the EV charging setup, possible short circuit, and lack of safety measures. The government plans to frame Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for safe EV charging in residential areas.
Rising Concerns Over EV Safety
The incident has sparked demands for stricter guidelines on home EV charging. Experts point to risks from overnight charging without proper oversight, especially near stored gas cylinders. Fire officials noted electronic door locks and dense smoke hindered escape efforts. This tragedy highlights growing safety gaps as EV adoption accelerates across India.
What Lies Ahead
As Dr Mohan Yadav prepares to reach Indore and meet the victims' families, his visit underscores government commitment to support affected families. Authorities continue forensic examination of the site, while post-mortems have been completed. Compensation and aid measures are expected soon.
The probe's findings will likely shape new regulations to prevent such incidents. For now, the Bengali Square area mourns a devastating loss that has shaken the community.
