Bombay High Court Orders BMC To Pay ₹50 Lakh Each To Families Of Victims Killed In 2015 Hotel City Kinara Fire

The Bombay High Court has ordered the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to pay a compensation of Rs 50 lakh each to the families of eight victims who lost their lives in a fire at the Hotel City Kinara in 2015. The court found the BMC guilty of "gross negligence," noting that the hotel was operating illegally without the necessary licenses and safety clearances. The judgment highlighted the failure of the municipal corporation's officials to take action against the establishment despite being aware of the violations. The court stated that the state has a duty to protect the lives of its citizens, and this failure constituted a breach of their fundamental rights. This landmark order emphasizes the accountability of municipal bodies and their officials in ensuring public safety and sets a significant precedent for compensating victims of tragedies caused by administrative negligence.