13 die in fire at eunuchs convention

Major fire broke out at pandal set up in Nand Nagri during national congregation of eunuchs.

At least 13 people were killed and 48 injured after a major fire broke out at a pandal set up outside a community hall in Nand Nagri,in north-east Delhi,during a national congregation of eunuchs at around 7 pm on Sunday.

Police sources said according to preliminary investigations,the fire appeared to have been caused by a short circuit.

But an eyewitness said a corner of a tent touched a chandelier and caught fire. The fire then reportedly spread to the cooking area behind the pandal,where there were gas cylinders,thus worsening the situation.

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Over 4,000 eunuchs from across the country had reportedly gathered for the function that is held once in five years. As the fire spread,people started rushing out from the single entry and exit gate.

All the young ones were able to get out,but the old ones were trapped inside, said another eyewitness.

Health and Revenue Minister A K Walia said an inquiry had been ordered into the incident.

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