The investigation into the devastating fire at a hotel in Malviya Nagar, New Delhi, which claimed 21 lives, has expanded significantly. On Thursday, Delhi Police discovered a blocked roof exit and cooking heaters being used in several guest rooms, according to news agency PTI.
Police Form Teams to Arrest Absconding Manager
Police have constituted five teams to locate and apprehend hotel manager Jai Mishra, who remains at large. Investigators are scrutinizing multiple facets of the incident, including potential breaches of building regulations, fire safety lapses, unauthorized construction, the ownership details of the bed-and-breakfast property, and other factors that may have contributed to the high casualty count.
Witnesses and Locals Questioned
According to police, local residents, shopkeepers, hotel staff, and eyewitnesses are being interrogated to reconstruct the sequence of events. A Look Out Circular (LOC) has been issued against hotel owner Lavkesh Bajaj and his wife, amid concerns they might attempt to flee the country.
During questioning, Bajaj reportedly informed police that he had delegated the hotel's management to Mishra and that the property's license was in Mishra's name. However, police sources indicated that Bajaj is believed to be the actual owner, while the B&B license was registered under Mishra. The blocked roof access is thought to have hindered occupants from escaping via an alternative route as thick smoke engulfed the five-story building. The presence of cooking heaters in several rooms, including those occupied by foreign nationals, is also under investigation.
Fire Broke Out on Wednesday Morning
The fire erupted on Wednesday morning at Flourish Stay Bed & Breakfast in Hauz Rani, Malviya Nagar, resulting in 21 fatalities, including several foreign nationals, and numerous injuries. A team from the Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) is expected to revisit the site for a detailed examination to pinpoint the exact cause of the blaze.
Search for Key Eyewitness
Police are also searching for an eyewitness, Kesar Singh, whose statement is considered crucial in determining how the fire started and spread. Investigators have additionally uncovered alleged violations in the property's expansion and operation. According to officials, Bajaj purchased the building in 2022 from an individual named Ahluwalia. The building originally had two-and-a-half floors, but additional floors were later constructed, bringing it to approximately five stories.
Police believe Bajaj had the means to leave the country, as his children reside abroad. A Look Out Circular has been issued against him and his wife as a precautionary measure.
Property Expansion Beyond Permitted Use
Sources revealed that the property was initially used for renting rooms and later obtained permission for a tea shop before being converted into a bed-and-breakfast. Over time, it expanded far beyond its authorized use. Investigators added that while Bajaj was the real owner, the B&B license was issued in the name of Jai Mishra, who managed daily operations, accounts, and administration after joining in 2022. Prior to that, Mishra worked as an accountant in Malviya Nagar.
Violations of Fire Safety Norms
Officials stated that the establishment was approved for six rooms under the Delhi government's B&B policy but was allegedly operating around 25 rooms, including some in the basement. The building lacked mandatory fire safety clearance, despite reportedly exceeding the height limit that necessitates a No Objection Certificate from the Delhi Fire Service. The ground floor housed a restaurant, while the basement and upper floors were used for guest accommodation.
Investigators are also examining claims that sealed windows, a single entry-exit point, and a sensor-operated main door complicated evacuation efforts. Police have arrested hotel owner Lavkesh Bajaj and booked him on charges including culpable homicide. The case involves sections related to negligence, fire-related damage, and endangering human life under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
DNA Testing for Foreign Nationals
Authorities stated that the bodies of foreign nationals will be handed over to their families and embassies after DNA testing and completion of legal formalities. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
