The investigation into the devastating fire at a guest house in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar has taken a dramatic turn, with police arresting the property’s owner, Lavkesh Bajaj, as authorities probe possible negligence and safety violations behind the tragedy that claimed 21 lives.
According to investigators, Bajaj allegedly told police that he passed by the building while it was engulfed in flames but did not stop, claiming he was frightened by the situation. The shocking admission has intensified scrutiny over the conduct of those responsible for operating the establishment.
The fire tore through the Flourish Stay bed-and-breakfast facility on Wednesday, triggering a massive rescue operation. More than 40 people were evacuated from the building, while dozens were rushed to hospitals. Many of the victims were reportedly foreign nationals from Central Asian and African countries.
Police investigations have revealed that the property, purchased by Bajaj in 2022, was being run as a hotel despite reportedly operating under a bed-and-breakfast licence. Officials are examining allegations that the facility exceeded permitted capacity, with claims that as many as 25 rooms were being used despite approvals for only a limited number of guest rooms.
Investigators are also searching for hotel manager Jai Mishra, who was reportedly overseeing day-to-day operations. Authorities are verifying statements made by the owner and reviewing licensing, occupancy and fire safety compliance records.
The case has sparked fresh concerns over illegal commercial operations and fire safety enforcement in the national capital. Officials have indicated that strict action will be taken if violations are confirmed.
The arrested owner is expected to be produced before a court, where police are likely to seek custody for further questioning as they attempt to determine whether negligence contributed to one of Delhi’s deadliest fire incidents in recent years.
