Kolkata, August 18, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Birbhum district administration has ordered the indefinite closure of 15 hotels located near the iconic Tara Temple in Tarapith following the deadly fire at the Bideshini hotel that has claimed nine lives.
The action came after police arrested the hotel’s main owner, Probit Paul, earlier on Tuesday. His son and co-owner, Kalyan Paul, was arrested on Monday following the fire.
The blaze has also triggered concerns over fire safety arrangements at hotels and lodges that have mushroomed around the temple in recent years. Local residents have alleged that several establishments in the area lack adequate safety measures.
Following the incident, the district administration carried out random inspections of hotels and lodges in the temple-adjacent area. Officials found 15 establishments without adequate fire safety arrangements and alternative exit routes needed for emergency evacuation.
A district administration official said strict legal action would be taken against hotel operators who fail to provide the required fire safety facilities and alternate evacuation routes.
“The safety of the thousands of pilgrims coming to this holy town every day is the topmost priority,” the official said.
Rampurhat Sub-Divisional Officer Rathod Ashwin Babu Singh, under whose jurisdiction Tarapith falls, said the administration had already issued closure notices to eight other hotels on Monday.
“Today, we have issued notices to 15 other hotel authorities. Keeping in mind the festive season ahead, we are going to arrange training for the managers and staff of every hotel in Tarapith for safety,” he said.
The administration’s move comes amid heightened scrutiny of safety standards at accommodation facilities serving pilgrims in the temple town.
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