Delhi Fire Tragedy: Police Detain Malviya Nagar Hotel Owner; Had Issued Lookout Notice

New Delhi: In a major crackdown regarding the fire incident at the Hauz Rani Hotel in Delhi's Malviya Nagar, the police have arrested the building's owner, Lovkesh Bajaj. This horrific tragedy, which occurred on Wednesday, claimed the lives of 21 people. The arrest was carried out just hours after the fire broke out. Prior to this, the Delhi Police had issued a Look-Out Circular (LOC) against Lovkesh Bajaj and his wife to prevent them from fleeing the country. The police had launched a special operation to locate the couple.

This tragic incident took place at the 'Flourish Stay B&B' hotel, located in the Hauz Rani area of ​​South Delhi. Within a short span of time, the fire engulfed the entire five-story building. The tragedy resulted in at least 21 fatalities, including 10 Indian nationals, 9 African nationals, and 2 citizens of Turkmenistan.

What action did the Delhi Police take?

According to the police, a primary reason for the rapid spread of the fire was the alleged disregard for safety standards within the building. The investigation revealed that the hotel did not possess the mandatory Fire No-Objection Certificate (NOC). Furthermore, the building had only a single entry and exit point. The windows were permanently sealed, and the main door was sensor-operated, causing significant difficulties for people attempting to escape.

During the incident, 58 people were safely evacuated and transported to hospitals; however, 21 of them were pronounced dead. Several other injured individuals are currently undergoing treatment at various hospitals. Investigating agencies allege that the hotel was accommodating a number of guests far exceeding its prescribed capacity and was in violation of numerous safety regulations. According to police sources, under the Delhi government's Bed and Breakfast policy, the hotel was authorized to operate only six rooms; however, approximately 25 rooms were being operated on the premises. Some of these rooms had even been constructed in the basement.

Under What Sections Has Case Been Registered?

The investigation has also revealed that, over the years, additional floors were constructed within the building without obtaining the necessary statutory approvals. The police have registered an FIR in this case under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Following the arrest of Lavkesh Bajaj, the interrogation process has now been intensified. The police are also investigating the roles of other individuals associated with the hotel and are attempting to ascertain who was responsible for the violations of safety regulations and for the negligence involved.