Rajya Sabha MP Sikander Kumar arrived to take stock of the situation.
Shimla, April 20: A devastating fire broke out at Saraswati Vidya Mandir (SVM) School in Lower Vikas Nagar, Shimla, late Saturday night, causing an estimated loss of ₹1–2 crore. Flames engulfed the upper floors of the school building, reducing books, documents, computers, and furniture to ashes before fire crews could fully control the blaze.
Eyewitnesses reported that local residents sprang into action, attempting to douse the flames with water from their rooftops. Despite their efforts, critical academic materials and infrastructure were completely destroyed. The exact cause of the fire is still under investigation, with a short circuit suspected in preliminary findings.
MP Sikander Kumar Visits Site, Announces Relief and Blasts Government Policies
Rajya Sabha MP Sikander Kumar visited the site early Sunday morning to assess the damage and expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident. Calling the loss “unfortunate and severe,” the MP announced ₹5 lakh as immediate relief and urged MPs, MLAs, and the state government to come forward and support the school’s recovery.
“This is not just a school—it’s the future of our children. The state must extend support to ensure it rises again,” said MP Kumar.
He also emphasized the urgent need for strengthening fire safety infrastructure, especially in educational institutions located in congested urban areas.
MP Targets Government Over Fare Hike and Healthcare Cuts
On the same day, MP Sikander Kumar strongly criticized the state government over its recent decision to double the minimum bus fare from ₹5 to ₹10. Terming it “a burden on the poor,” he questioned how daily wage workers would afford such a steep fare even for short commutes.
He also took aim at the state’s healthcare crisis, particularly the suspension of free treatment under the Himcare scheme due to unpaid dues at PGI Chandigarh.
“The government has funds for political appointments and expensive newspaper ads, but not for schemes like Ayushman Bharat or Himcare that serve the common man,” he said.
Public Reaction and Next Steps
The fire has not only disrupted education at SVM School but has also sparked debate on government priorities and infrastructure safety. Residents and parents have called for urgent restoration efforts, while local leaders are demanding a detailed inquiry and enhanced fire safety protocols for schools across the region.
As the investigation continues, the coming days will be crucial in rebuilding the damaged institution and addressing the broader policy concerns raised by the opposition.
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