Malviya Nagar Fire Probe Reveals Fresh Details
The investigation into the deadly fire at a guest house in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar has taken a new turn after hotel owner Lavkesh Bajaj made several claims while being questioned by police. The fire, which killed 21 people and injured several others, has become one of the deadliest incidents in the capital in recent years.
Authorities are now examining whether serious safety violations and negligence contributed to the tragedy. Investigators are also looking into the role of the property’s owners and operators as they try to determine how such a large-scale disaster occurred.
Lavkesh Bajaj Denies Running The Property
According to investigators, Lavkesh Bajaj, who owns the building where the fire broke out, claimed that he was not directly managing the guest house operations.
During questioning, Bajaj reportedly told police that another person was responsible for running the property and handling daily operations. He argued that he was only the owner of the building and was not involved in the management of the establishment.
Investigators, however, are verifying these claims and examining documents related to ownership, licensing, and operational responsibilities.
Officials are trying to establish who was responsible for ensuring that safety norms were followed at the property.
Guest House Never Received Fire Safety Clearance
One of the most serious findings in the investigation is that the guest house allegedly never received the required No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the fire department.
Authorities believe the establishment continued operating despite not having mandatory fire safety clearance. Investigators are examining how the property was allowed to function and whether any rules were ignored.
The absence of a fire NOC has become a major focus of the probe because such certificates are intended to ensure that buildings have adequate fire prevention and emergency evacuation systems in place.
Officials are now checking whether safety inspections were conducted and if any warnings had been issued earlier.
Owner Allegedly Fled After Fire
Police investigations have also revealed that Lavkesh Bajaj allegedly left the area after the fire erupted.
According to reports, Bajaj later claimed that he fled because he was frightened after witnessing the scale of the tragedy. He reportedly told investigators that panic and fear drove his decision to leave the scene.
Authorities are examining his movements after the incident and trying to determine whether any delay in reporting or responding affected rescue operations.
Investigators have also collected CCTV footage and witness statements as part of the ongoing inquiry.
How The Tragedy Unfolded
The fire broke out late at night when many guests were inside the building. Thick smoke quickly spread through the property, making it difficult for people to escape.
Witnesses described scenes of panic as guests tried to find exits while rescue teams rushed to the location.
Firefighters battled the blaze for several hours before bringing it under control. However, by the time rescue operations were completed, 21 people had lost their lives and several others had suffered injuries.
The incident shocked residents across Delhi and raised fresh concerns about fire safety standards in hotels, guest houses, and commercial buildings.
Police Probe Multiple Violations
Investigators are now examining whether building rules, fire safety regulations, and licensing requirements were violated.
Authorities are reviewing official records, safety documents, and inspection reports to identify any lapses that may have contributed to the disaster.
Several officials and individuals connected to the property could face action if evidence of negligence or violations is found.
Police have stated that accountability will be fixed after the investigation is completed.
Questions Over Safety Standards
The tragedy has once again highlighted concerns regarding fire safety compliance in commercial establishments across Delhi.
Experts say that obtaining a fire NOC and conducting regular safety inspections are essential for preventing such disasters. The incident has sparked calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and stronger monitoring of hotels and guest houses.
Many residents and safety advocates have urged authorities to conduct inspections of similar properties to ensure compliance with fire safety norms.
Investigation Continues
As the probe moves forward, investigators are trying to determine exactly who was responsible for managing the guest house and ensuring passenger safety.
With allegations of missing fire clearances, questions over operational control, and claims made by the owner, the Malviya Nagar fire case remains under intense scrutiny.
Authorities say the investigation will continue until all facts are established and responsibility for the tragedy is determined.
