The investigation into the devastating hotel fire in Delhi has expanded, with authorities now focusing on the establishment's accountant, Jay Mishra, as a key figure in the case. The development comes as the First Information Report (FIR) filed by the police has flagged multiple safety violations at the premises.
Focus on Jay Mishra
Jay Mishra, a long-time associate of the arrested hotel owner Lavkesh Bajaj, is believed to have played a crucial role in the hotel's financial and operational management. Police sources indicate that Mishra may have been aware of the safety lapses and could have been complicit in concealing them from regulatory authorities. He is currently absconding, and a manhunt has been launched to apprehend him.
FIR Details Violations
The FIR, registered at the local police station, outlines several serious breaches of safety norms. These include inadequate fire exits, non-functional fire extinguishers, and the absence of a proper fire alarm system. The hotel had also failed to conduct mandatory fire drills and lacked clear evacuation plans. The violations are believed to have contributed to the high casualty count in the blaze that broke out last week.
According to investigators, the hotel management had been repeatedly warned by the fire department about these issues but failed to take corrective action. The FIR also mentions that the hotel was operating beyond its sanctioned capacity, with unauthorized extensions and overcrowding in guest areas.
Arrest of Owner Lavkesh Bajaj
Earlier, police arrested hotel owner Lavkesh Bajaj on charges of culpable homicide and negligence. Bajaj was produced before a local court and has been remanded to police custody for further interrogation. During questioning, he reportedly admitted to knowing about the safety deficiencies but claimed that he was in the process of addressing them.
However, investigators believe that Bajaj, along with Mishra, deliberately ignored safety protocols to maximize profits. The police are now examining financial records to trace any irregularities or diversion of funds meant for safety upgrades.
Wider Probe
The investigation has been widened to include other staff members and contractors who may have been involved in the hotel's operations. Authorities are also looking into the role of local municipal officials who conducted inspections in the past. The police have formed multiple teams to gather evidence and record statements from survivors and eyewitnesses.
The tragic incident has sparked outrage among the public and calls for stricter enforcement of fire safety norms in commercial establishments across the city. The Delhi government has announced a high-level inquiry and promised stringent action against those found guilty.
As the probe continues, the focus remains on bringing all responsible parties to justice and ensuring that such a disaster does not recur. The hunt for Jay Mishra is ongoing, and authorities have urged anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward.
