A devastating fire broke out in a gaming zone in Rajkot, Gujarat, resulting in the tragic deaths of 27 people, including 9 children. The incident occurred on Saturday evening, local time, and has left the community in shock and mourning.

According to NDTV News, the fire erupted in the gaming zone under circumstances that are still being investigated. Rajkot Assistant Commissioner of Police Vinayak Patel stated that the bodies were severely burnt, making identification challenging. The police have arrested the owners of the gaming zone as part of the ongoing investigation.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has announced financial assistance for the victims' families. Each family that lost a loved one in the fire will receive Rs 4 lakh, while the injured will receive Rs 50,000. In response to the tragedy, all gaming zones in Rajkot have been ordered to close immediately.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the incident, stating, "I am deeply saddened by the fire incident in Rajkot. I understand the grief of those who have lost their loved ones. Pray for the injured." Similarly, Indian President Draupadi Murmu extended her condolences to the affected families.

The incident has prompted a reevaluation of safety protocols in public entertainment venues. Authorities are expected to implement stricter regulations to prevent such tragedies in the future.

The community continues to reel from the shock of this devastating event as authorities work to provide support to the victims' families and investigate the cause of the fire.