New Delhi, June 4: Delhi Police have arrested the owner of a guest house in Malviya Nagar where a devastating fire killed 21 people and injured several others, as investigators intensify their probe into alleged safety violations and operational irregularities at the property.
The accused, identified as Lavkesh Bajaj, was taken into custody on Wednesday following an extensive search operation conducted by multiple police teams across the national capital.
The arrest came hours after a massive fire engulfed the Flourish Stay Bed and Breakfast (B&B) establishment located in the densely populated Hauz Rani area of South Delhi. Authorities had earlier issued a Look Out Circular (LOC) against Bajaj and his wife while launching efforts to trace their whereabouts.
According to Delhi Police, the tragedy has so far claimed 21 lives and left dozens injured. Officials said 49 people were admitted to various hospitals following the incident.
“In the Malviya Nagar fire incident, 49 people were admitted to hospitals. So far, 21 have died, including nine Indians and 12 foreign nationals. Eight patients have been discharged, while others are undergoing treatment,” said Anant Mittal.
The Delhi Fire Service said the blaze affected multiple levels of the building, including the basement, ground floor and five upper floors. The fire caused extensive heat and smoke damage throughout the structure, complicating rescue operations.
Officials reported that 47 occupants were rescued from the building during the emergency response, while 26 injured individuals continue to receive medical treatment.
Among those who lost their lives were several foreign nationals. Preliminary information indicates that victims included citizens from countries such as Liberia, Nigeria, Mozambique and Bangladesh.
Investigators have registered a case under provisions related to culpable homicide and other relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Authorities are examining whether negligence and violations of safety regulations contributed to the high casualty count.
The investigation has also expanded beyond the building owner. Officials are scrutinising the role of three individuals reportedly associated with the operation and management of the establishment. Sources indicated that the group may be linked to the operation of multiple hotels and guest houses across Delhi, prompting a wider review of ownership structures, licensing compliance and fire safety practices.
Preliminary findings have raised concerns regarding the manner in which the property was being operated. Investigators suspect that although the establishment was registered under the Bed and Breakfast category, it may have been functioning beyond the limits permitted under its licence.
According to officials, the property was allegedly approved for only six rooms but was reportedly accommodating guests in nearly 25 rooms. Authorities are verifying these claims as part of the ongoing inquiry.
The building’s fire safety infrastructure has also come under scrutiny. Initial reports suggest that the property had only a single common entry and exit point, which may have significantly hindered evacuation efforts once the fire spread through the building.
The tragedy has triggered a broader response from the Delhi government. In a statement, the Chief Minister’s Office announced a magisterial inquiry into the incident and warned of stringent action against establishments operating in violation of building regulations and fire safety norms.
The government said a city-wide crackdown would be launched against illegal properties, unauthorised guest houses and establishments found flouting prescribed safety standards. Such premises, officials said, would face sealing and legal action under applicable laws.
Authorities have reiterated that accountability will be fixed wherever lapses are identified. Investigators are currently examining fire safety certificates, occupancy permissions, emergency evacuation arrangements and operational records related to the property.
As the investigation progresses, the Malviya Nagar tragedy has once again highlighted concerns over fire safety compliance in densely populated urban areas, raising questions about regulatory oversight and enforcement mechanisms for hospitality establishments operating in the capital.
