A devastating fire broke out at a four-storey hotel near Tarapith Police Station in Birbhum, West Bengal, around 5 AM on Monday. Nine pilgrims from Meghalaya, Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri were killed, while seven others were injured and admitted to Rampurhat Medical College and Hospital. Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire may have started due to a short circuit in the reception area and spread rapidly through plywood-fitted false ceilings and walls. Guests alleged that the hotel lacked adequate fire-safety arrangements and that emergency exits were locked, making evacuation difficult. The deceased included five members of two families from Meghalaya, three people from Alipurduar and one person from Dhupguri, Jalpaiguri. The incident has raised serious concerns over fire-safety compliance and construction norms among hotels in Tarapith. Location: Tarapith, Birbhum, West Bengal Emergency/Medical Assistance: Rampurhat Medical College and Hospital