Two minors die as shanty catches fire

Tribune News Service

Nawanshahr, May 21

Two minors were burnt to death after their hut caught fire here last night. The deceased have been identified as Jyoti (10) and Bhuri (7). The father of the deceased, Umesh, a migrant labourer, had come to Sabhuwal village in Balachaur in search of work around five years ago.

The police said the incident took place late last night. Umesh and his other three children were sleeping in another hut. He learnt about the incident when the hut in which his daughters were sleeping caught fire and the flames spread and charred the hut within minutes. Their household belongings were also burnt in the incident.

Residents of nearby villages gathered at the spot. They tried to douse the flames, but could not succeed. As per information, the minor girls were already dead when they were taken out of the hut.

A district administrative official said the family would be provided necessary help. Kathgarh SHO said an inquiry had been initiated under Section 174 CrPC.