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West Bengal minister dies in fire

Veteran communist leader and West Bengal Commerce and Industries Minister Bidyut Ganguly died at a city hospital today following severe burn injuries. He was 64.

Ganguly is survived by his wife and two daughters.

He was admitted to the sskm hospital here last night in a serious condition after sustaining severe burns in an accidental fire at his residence at Bhatpara in north 24-Parganas district.

His lower portion, including both legs, were badly burnt. The cause of fire at his residence was yet to be ascertained. An investigation was on.

Governor Viren J Shah and Chief Minister Jyoti Basu condoled the minister's death.

The body is to be cremated this evening at Bhatpara, where he spent most of his life.

Local CPI-M leaders said Ganguly returned home around 8 pm last evening after attending several meetings with party leaders and workers during the day. His wife was not at home at the time.

A maid saw smoke emanating from his first floor room and rushed over to put out the fire. She too sustained injuries in the process.

By the time the fire was doused, Ganguly had sustained severe burns. His bed was also burnt. He was taken to SSKM hospital in an ambulance.

Party leaders said the fire might have originated from a lit cigarette.

Ganguly was elected chairman of Bhatpara municipality in 1984 and to the West Bengal assembly in 1991. He was re-elected to the assembly in 1996. He was associated with the left movement for a long time.

UNI

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