SIT Begins Probe into Taratala Building Collapse

The death toll in the Taratala building collapse in Kolkata has risen to 15, as rescue teams continue search and recovery operations at the site. Several injured victims are undergoing treatment at SSKM Hospital, while emergency personnel remain engaged in clearing the debris.

In a major development, the Kolkata Police have arrested six people, including a government official, in connection with the incident. The arrests come as investigators examine possible lapses that may have contributed to the collapse.

The West Bengal Government has constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to conduct a detailed probe into the tragedy. The SIT will investigate the circumstances leading to the collapse, determine accountability, and recommend further legal action.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences over the loss of lives and announced an ex gratia of ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) to the next of kin of each deceased. Those injured in the incident will receive ₹50,000 in financial assistance.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari also announced enhanced compensation, declaring ₹10 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives and ₹1 lakh for each injured person.

Authorities have assured that the rescue operation will continue until all those feared trapped are accounted for. The SIT investigation is expected to determine the cause of the collapse and fix responsibility for the incident.