The investigation into the tragic fire at Flourish Stays Bed and Breakfast in Malviya Nagar, South Delhi, which resulted in the loss of 21 lives, has uncovered that the owner, Luv Kesh Bajaj, manages two additional properties in the vicinity that are now facing scrutiny for possible safety and regulatory infractions, according to police sources.
Authorities believe that the fire, one of the most lethal incidents in recent history, was likely triggered by an electrical short circuit.
Investigators have identified that Bajaj also operates Lemon Green Inn, located just a short distance from Flourish Stays, and Micasa Inn, which is situated behind the fire-affected property in the Hauz Rani area. Early inspections at these locations have indicated various violations, such as unauthorized construction, insufficient fire safety measures, and only one staircase for entry and exit. Both establishments have since been closed.
Reports suggest that these properties lacked the necessary permits to function legally as hotels.
During a recent interrogation, Bajaj, who was apprehended on Wednesday night, stated that he acquired the Flourish Stays property approximately three years ago from an individual named Ahluwalia.
According to investigators, the building is around 40 years old, although significant renovations, including changes to both the exterior and interior, were conducted in the last few years.
The police have described the structure as having a basement with four rooms and a kitchen, a ground floor that includes the reception area, a restaurant, and two rooms, along with four upper floors that each contain about five rooms. Additionally, there is a kitchen located on the top floor.
Authorities are currently assessing whether the renovations compromised the building’s structural integrity and violated safety regulations.
Police reported that Bajaj attempted to evade capture by frequently changing locations within Saket and using different vehicles before eventually seeking refuge at a friend’s home.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire was likely caused by a short circuit. While LPG cylinders were found on the premises, there is no evidence that any of them exploded during the incident.
Officials noted the presence of fire extinguishers within the hotel; however, they were deemed ineffective in addressing the emergency.
The police received alerts about the fire at 8:49 AM, with callers informing them that numerous individuals were trapped inside. Emergency response teams arrived promptly and initiated rescue efforts.
Once on the scene, police began evacuating guests within seven to eight minutes, while local residents had already begun their own rescue attempts prior to the arrival of emergency personnel.
Additionally, authorities are investigating alleged food safety violations connected to the restaurant operating within the affected building.
The fire-damaged structure has been deemed hazardous, with parts of the interior having become unstable due to the blaze, resulting in loose glass panels, tiles, and other fixtures.
An FIR has been lodged following the complaint of a police officer, stating that Bajaj failed to implement adequate safety protocols, which ultimately led to the fatal fire.
