In the aftermath of a devastating warehouse fire in Kolkata’s Anandpur area on January 26, 2026, significant developments have emerged regarding accountability and victim compensation. The blaze, which originated in a neighboring facility around 3 AM before spreading to Wow! Momo’s storage premises, resulted in multiple fatalities and numerous missing persons reports.
Law enforcement authorities have intensified their investigation with the arrests of two additional suspects connected to the incident. Baruipur Police confirmed the detention of Manoranjan Sheet, the company manager, and Raja Chakraborty, the deputy manager. These apprehensions follow the earlier arrest of Gangadhar Das, owner of the adjacent Pushpanjali Decorators warehouse, who faces charges of criminal negligence resulting in death.
The human toll has prompted substantial response from both governmental and corporate entities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced immediate financial assistance through the PM National Relief Fund, allocating ₹200,000 to families of deceased victims and ₹50,000 for injured individuals. The Prime Minister’s Office expressed profound sorrow regarding the incident, extending condolences to affected families.
Wow! Momo has instituted an extensive support program for victims’ families, surpassing statutory requirements. The company has committed to providing ₹1 million lump-sum compensation per family, guaranteed lifetime monthly salary continuation, and comprehensive educational support for children who lost parents in the tragedy. Company representatives have personally met with all affected families to ensure transparent communication regarding these commitments.
Forensic investigation continues with 21 DNA samples submitted for profiling, while police have registered 27 official missing persons reports related to the incident. The exact death toll remains unconfirmed as recovery and identification efforts persist.
The restaurant chain’s official statement conveyed profound emotional impact, noting the fire “engulfed not only our men but our spirit too,” while pledging full cooperation with ongoing governmental investigations into the catastrophe’s causes.