Delhi fire horror: Hotel owner arrested as probe into 21 deaths widens

A devastating fire at the Flourish Stay B&B in Delhi's Malviya Nagar claimed at least 21 lives and left dozens injured, triggering a major investigation into alleged safety violations. Delhi Police have arrested hotel owner Lavkesh Bajaj and registered a case of culpable homicide.

According to the probe, the establishment had approval for only six rooms under the Delhi government's Bed & Breakfast policy but was allegedly running around 25 rooms, including accommodation in the basement. Authorities also suspect that additional floors were constructed without obtaining the



required approvals.

The building's design is under scrutiny, with officials pointing to a single entry-exit point, sealed windows and a sensor-operated main door that may have hampered evacuation efforts. The five-storey structure quickly filled with smoke and heat, trapping many occupants inside.

The victims included Indians as well as foreign nationals, many of whom were staying near hospitals where relatives were receiving treatment. Preliminary findings suggest the fire may have started in the ground-floor restaurant after electrical equipment was switched on.