Malviya Nagar hotel fire puts Delhi's bed-and-breakfast policy under scrutiny

A day after the devastating Malviya Nagar hotel fire claimed 21 lives, investigators intensified their probe into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The incident has exposed a series of alleged safety violations and regulatory lapses. Multiple agencies are now examining how the building continued operating despite apparent irregularities.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited injured victims undergoing treatment at Max Hospital in Saket. She reviewed their condition and assured all possible assistance from the government. The chief minister has also ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident and sought accountability for any lapses.

The tragedy claimed the lives of several foreign nationals who had come to Delhi for medical treatment or were accompanying patients. Most of the victims were from Liberia, Nigeria, Mozambique and Bangladesh. The hotel's proximity to hospitals in Saket had made it a preferred stay option for medical visitors.

Investigators found that the property had permission to operate only six rooms under Delhi's Bed and Breakfast scheme. However, it was allegedly functioning with 25 rooms, including several in the basement. Authorities are examining whether illegal expansion played a role in worsening the disaster.

The building allegedly lacked a mandatory fire safety clearance and had only one entry-exit point. Investigators said the locked terrace and absence of alternative escape routes severely hampered evacuation efforts. These violations are being viewed as major factors behind the high death toll.

Witnesses reported hearing a loud blast moments before flames engulfed the building. Investigators are probing whether a commercial LPG cylinder in the kitchen or a faulty air-conditioner triggered the blaze. Forensic teams are analysing evidence to determine the exact cause of the fire.

Officials suspect that toughened glass panels trapped dense smoke inside the structure. As smoke rapidly filled corridors and rooms, many occupants struggled to find a safe exit. Investigators are examining how the building's layout may have worsened conditions during the emergency.

Hotel owner Lavkesh Bajaj has been detained after a lookout circular was issued against him. Police are also searching for hotel manager Jai Mishra as part of the investigation. Authorities are examining the ownership structure, licensing records and operational responsibility for the property.

The tragedy has prompted a wider review of establishments operating under Delhi's Bed and Breakfast policy. Officials have announced action against buildings lacking fire clearances and other mandatory approvals. Investigators are also examining whether oversight failures allowed the property to continue operating despite alleged violations.