Hotel Cook Arrested in Delhi Fire That Killed 21
During the investigation, authorities reportedly uncovered multiple safety violations and serious shortcomings in the building’s fire safety infrastructure.
New Delhi: Delhi Police has arrested a hotel cook in connection with the Malaviya Nagar fire tragedy, in which at least 21 people, including several foreign nationals, lost their lives. Officials said on Saturday that the investigation found the cook’s negligence led to the blaze. Several other individuals have also been detained in connection with the incident.
The devastating fire broke out at a bed-and-breakfast establishment in South Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area during the early hours of Wednesday. The incident claimed 21 lives, including 17 foreign nationals, and left several others injured.
During the investigation, authorities reportedly uncovered multiple safety violations and serious shortcomings in the building’s fire safety infrastructure. Sources said the windows and glass panels had been completely sealed, preventing smoke from escaping. Investigators also found that the basement entrance was locked from the inside.
Rescue teams allegedly took nearly 10 minutes to gain access to the basement, from where six to seven people were rescued.
Meanwhile, 15 injured patients are undergoing treatment at Max Hospital in Saket. According to a hospital statement, all ventilated patients are stable and showing signs of improvement.
The hospital added that nine other patients are receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and general wards. The overall condition of all admitted patients remains stable.
Police have already arrested hotel owner Lovekesh Bajaj, along with Sweety Sarkar and Pushpo Sarkar, in connection with the case. Following the investigation, a chargesheet was filed before the court against the accused.
Bajaj, owner of the Flourish Stays Hotel in Malviya Nagar, has been remanded to four days of police custody in connection with the fire tragedy, which also left 28 people injured.
