Delhi Government Announces End of Bed-and-Breakfast Scheme
In a major policy decision following the deadly fire at a guest accommodation facility in south Delhi, the Delhi government has decided to discontinue its Bed and Breakfast (B&B) scheme and launch a comprehensive review of all properties operating under the programme.
Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra said authorities would begin inspections of all establishments registered under the scheme and take strict action against those found violating licensing norms.
According to the minister, the government is moving towards formally withdrawing the policy while simultaneously scrutinising existing operators.
Strict Action Planned Against Rule Violators
The tourism department has warned that properties exceeding the number of rooms permitted under their licences could face cancellation of registration.
Mishra stated that establishments operating beyond approved limits would not be allowed to continue under the scheme. He indicated that any property licensed for six rooms but found accommodating a larger number of guests would face regulatory action.
The announcement marks one of the strongest responses by the government since the tragic incident in Malviya Nagar.
Fire at Flourish Stay Raises Safety Concerns
The decision comes a day after a devastating blaze at the Flourish Stay property in Malviya Nagar claimed 21 lives and injured several others.
Among those killed were 11 foreign nationals, bringing international attention to the incident. Investigators have alleged that the property was functioning well beyond the limits approved under its tourism licence.
According to officials, the establishment had received a B&B licence in 2024 under the Silver category, permitting operations in six rooms until 2027.
However, preliminary findings suggest the property may have been operating nearly 25 rooms, including accommodation facilities allegedly created in the basement area.
Questions Raised Over Compliance and Safety Clearances
Investigators are also examining whether the property had obtained mandatory fire safety approvals required for such operations.
Officials believe the scale of commercial activity at the site may have exceeded what was permitted under the licensing framework. The alleged use of basement areas for accommodation has become a key focus of the inquiry.
Police and regulatory agencies are continuing their investigation into possible violations of safety and operational norms.
Tourism Department Clarifies Its Role
Explaining the department’s responsibilities, Mishra said the tourism wing primarily handles licence issuance, renewals and periodic inspections.
He noted that property owners are required to submit guest records to local police authorities at regular intervals, while day-to-day management remains the responsibility of operators.
The minister said the current review would help determine whether establishments have been complying with licence conditions and safety requirements.
Policy Withdrawal Comes Amid Planned Reforms
Interestingly, the decision to abolish the B&B scheme comes shortly after the tourism department proposed modernising the existing framework.
A draft policy released last month had recommended a revised classification system featuring Gold and Silver categories. The proposal aimed to assess properties on parameters such as room quality, sanitation standards, guest facilities, safety measures and overall infrastructure.
Government records indicate that, as of 2023, more than 432 properties with over 2,200 rooms were registered under the scheme across Delhi.
Experts Point to Larger Regulatory Issues
Urban planning expert Jagdish Mamgain said the latest tragedy reflects broader concerns regarding enforcement and monitoring in the capital.
He observed that Delhi has witnessed multiple fatal incidents involving fires and building collapses over the past year, suggesting that the issue extends beyond a single property.
Mamgain argued that authorities should focus not only on room-limit violations but also on how establishments allegedly breaching norms continued operating with valid licences.
According to him, stronger oversight mechanisms and stricter enforcement are essential to prevent similar tragedies and improve public safety standards across the city.
Focus Shifts to Accountability
With investigations underway and the B&B policy set to be withdrawn, attention is now turning to accountability, safety compliance and regulatory enforcement.
