A fire broke out in a building near Hyderabad’s historic Charminar monument, claiming at least eight lives and injuring several others, according to the Press Trust of India on Sunday.
Local reports indicated that multiple people were found unconscious and were quickly taken to hospitals. The building reportedly contained a jewelry shop on the ground floor with residential units above.
Federal minister and BJP leader G. Kishan Reddy, speaking at the scene, said the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit and confirmed multiple fatalities.
Authorities are still investigating, and further information is awaited.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on X, saying he was “deeply anguished by the loss of lives,” and announced financial aid for the victims’ families.
Fires are a frequent occurrence in India, often due to violations of building codes and safety regulations.