FireSafety – Delhi Court Grants Police Custody to Guest House Owner After Deadly Blaze
FireSafety – A day after a devastating fire tore through a multi-storey guest house in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area, the owner of the property has been placed in police custody for four days as investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The incident claimed 21 lives and left several others injured, making it one of the city’s most serious fire-related disasters in recent times.
Court Proceedings and Police Action
The property owner, Lavkesh Bajaj, was taken into custody following an extensive search operation carried out by Delhi Police across different parts of the national capital. He was presented before a Delhi court on Thursday, where investigators requested additional time for questioning as part of the ongoing inquiry.
During the hearing, police officials informed the court that the investigation remains in its early stages and several crucial aspects are yet to be verified. Authorities argued that custodial interrogation is necessary to gather further information related to the operation of the establishment and the individuals employed there.
Questions Over Hotel Operations
According to investigators, details of only two staff members have been provided so far. Police told the court that they need complete information about employees who were working at the guest house at the time of the incident.
Authorities are also seeking access to business records, operational documents, and other materials that could help determine whether the establishment was functioning in accordance with applicable regulations. Investigators believe these records may provide important insights into the management and safety practices followed at the property.
Defense Raises Objections
Representing Bajaj, the defense counsel questioned the basis of the arrest and argued that ownership of the property alone should not be considered sufficient grounds for detention. The lawyer also stated before the court that a copy of the First Information Report had not yet been received.
In response, Delhi Police informed the court that the FIR would be made available to the defense in accordance with legal procedures. The defense opposed the request for police remand and urged the court to reject the custody plea.
Forensic Examination Yet to Progress
Police officials explained that the intensity of the blaze has delayed detailed forensic examination of the site. Investigators said experts are still assessing the affected areas and collecting evidence needed to determine the sequence of events that led to the disaster.
Authorities further stated that employees associated with the guest house need to be questioned because the establishment was operating under the supervision of its owner. Investigators believe statements from staff members could play a key role in understanding how the facility was being managed before the fire occurred.
Allegations of Safety and Licensing Violations
During court proceedings, police claimed that the property had authorization for only six rooms but was reportedly operating 28 rooms. Investigators alleged that significant lapses and negligence may have contributed to the situation and are examining whether safety norms and licensing conditions were violated.
Officials emphasized that these allegations remain part of an ongoing investigation and that conclusions will depend on evidence gathered through forensic analysis, witness statements, and official records.
Rescue Efforts and Medical Treatment Continue
Emergency teams carried out large-scale rescue operations following the fire and successfully brought 47 people out of the building. Authorities said that 26 injured individuals remain under medical care at different hospitals.
Several patients are being treated at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Delhi. Among those receiving medical attention are police personnel who were part of the first response teams and entered the smoke-filled structure during rescue efforts.
As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to focus on determining the cause of the blaze, reviewing safety compliance records, and identifying any lapses that may have contributed to the loss of life.