TAMIL NADU: A tragic refrigerator explosion in a women's hostel in Madurai claimed the lives of two women and left at least three others injured early Thursday morning. The victims, Parimala and Saranya, succumbed to their injuries after being rushed to a government hospital. The blast occurred while the residents were asleep, leading to a fire and heavy smoke.

The injured are currently receiving treatment at a hospital. Information Technology Minister P. Thiaga Rajan extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that all necessary support, including alternative accommodation, is being provided to the affected residents. He also visited the injured women at a private hospital and met with the displaced hostel residents.

Madurai District Collector M. S. Sangeetha confirmed that an inquiry is ongoing into allegations that the hostel was unlicensed and located in an old building. She mentioned that a demolition notice had been reportedly issued to the owner last year by local authorities. The hostel owner is now under investigation, and authorities have been directed to inspect hostels across the district to ensure they meet safety standards.

Expressing his condolences over the tragic loss of life, Information Technology Minister P. Thiaga Rajan assured that the government is extending full support to the affected hostel residents. He emphasized that immediate assistance, including providing alternative accommodation, has been arranged to ensure the displaced women have a safe place to stay. The Minister also promised that appropriate legal and administrative action would be taken following the investigation into the incident.

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