Malviya Nagar Fire Disaster: Cook Arrested as Probe Uncovers Major Safety Lapses

Delhi Police on Saturday announced the arrest of a hotel cook in connection with a devastating fire that broke out at a bed-and-breakfast establishment in South Delhi's Malviya Nagar area during the early hours of June 3, killing at least 21 people and injuring 28 others.

Among those who lost their lives were 13 foreign nationals, making the tragedy one of the deadliest hotel fire incidents in the national capital in recent years.

According to investigators, the probe has revealed that the cook's alleged negligence led to the blaze. Police have also detained several other individuals as part of the ongoing investigation into the incident.

The arrest comes as authorities continue to examine the circumstances that resulted in the massive fire and the loss of lives.

What safety violations were found during the investigation?

The investigation has uncovered multiple safety violations and serious shortcomings in the building's fire safety infrastructure.

According to sources, investigators found that the building's windows and glass panels had been completely sealed, preventing smoke from escaping during the fire. This may have worsened conditions for occupants trapped inside.

Authorities also discovered that the entrance to the basement had been locked from the inside. Rescue personnel reportedly needed nearly 10 minutes to gain access to the area, from where six to seven people were eventually rescued.

The findings have raised questions about compliance with fire safety regulations and emergency evacuation preparedness at the establishment.

Who has been arrested so far?

Police had earlier 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 persons.

Bajaj, owner of Flourish Stays Hotel in Malviya Nagar, was subsequently remanded to four days of police custody in connection with the fire tragedy.

What is the condition of the injured victims?

According to a statement issued by Max Hospital in Saket, 15 injured patients are currently undergoing treatment.

"All ventilated patients are stable and showing signs of improvement," the statement said.

The hospital added that nine other patients are receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and hospital wards.

"The overall condition of all admitted patients remains stable," according to the hospital.

What happens next in the case?

With the arrest of the hotel cook and the earlier detention of the hotel's owner and other accused persons, investigators are expected to continue examining individual responsibilities and potential violations of fire safety norms.

The findings of the investigation, including the alleged negligence and safety deficiencies discovered at the property, are likely to play a key role in determining accountability for a tragedy that claimed 21 lives and left dozens injured.

(With inputs from ANI)