A Delhi court on Monday extended the police custody of Suraj Prakash Bajaj, the owner of the hotel where a massive fire broke out last week, by two days. The court's order came after the police sought further custody for investigation into the incident that claimed several lives.
Court Proceedings
Bajaj was produced before the court of Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate at the end of his initial four-day police custody. The investigating officer requested an extension, citing the need to recover crucial documents and electronic evidence related to the fire safety measures at the hotel. The court granted the extension until June 10.
Charges Against the Owner
The hotel owner was arrested shortly after the fire and booked under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder, causing death by negligence, and other relevant provisions. The police have alleged that the hotel lacked proper fire safety equipment and that the owner had ignored repeated warnings from the fire department.
Background of the Incident
The fire broke out in the early hours of June 6 at the hotel located in central Delhi. Firefighters rescued several guests, but at least 17 people were killed and many others injured. The tragedy has raised serious questions about fire safety compliance in commercial establishments in the city.
Following the incident, the Delhi government ordered a thorough inspection of all hotels and guesthouses in the city to ensure adherence to safety norms. The police have also registered a case against the hotel management for negligence.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Bajaj's lawyer argued that his client was cooperating with the investigation and that the extension of custody was unnecessary. However, the court observed that the investigation was at a critical stage and granted the police two more days to complete their probe.
The next hearing is scheduled for June 10, when the police are expected to either seek further custody or produce the accused before the court for judicial custody.
