Lucknow building fire: FIR cites illegal commercial use, single entry/exit in building that claimed 15 lives

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Police personnel deployed as a joint team comprising the FSL (Forensic Science Laboratory) and SIT (Special Investigation Team) inspects the spot, where a massive fire resulted in the death of 15 people yesterday, in Lucknow on Tuesday (June 23, 2026). | Photo Credit: ANI

The FIR registered over the Aliganj building fire in Lucknow that claimed 15 lives has alleged that the premises were being operated as a commercial establishment without adequate fire safety arrangements, emergency exits and measures to prevent smoke accumulation, police said.

The FIR, lodged at Aliganj police station under sections 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 110 (attempt to commit culpable homicide), 125 (rash or negligent act endangering human life) and provisions of the Uttar Pradesh Fire and Emergency Services Act, names four accused persons and others.

Those named, including building owner and operators of the pet shop and animation centre, have been arrested, officials said.

According to the FIR, the three-storey building located in Sector D of Aliganj housed a pet shop and clinic on the ground and first floors, respectively, a video gaming zone and 3D animation centre on the second floor, and an IT networking office on the third floor.

The FIR stated that the fire broke out around 2:30 p.m. on June 22, 2026, at the pet shop and clinic, following which firefighters, SDRF, NDRF and police personnel carried out rescue operations.

The complaint alleged that the building owners and persons associated with the establishments "had not made any arrangements for fire safety" and that there was "no arrangement for immediate emergency exit or entry" in the building.

"It had only one main route for entry and exit, and there was no other exit door or emergency door," the FIR stated.

The FIR further alleged that the electrical arrangements in the building were "highly irregular" and that there was no system to allow smoke to escape.

It also alleged that air-conditioner outdoor units and