Investigation – Delhi Police Expands Probe Into Deadly Malviya Nagar Hotel Fire

Investigation –  Following the devastating blaze that claimed 22 lives in South Delhi, investigators are closely examining operational records, licensing procedures, and safety compliance at the affected property.

Delhi Police has uncovered fresh details during its preliminary investigation into the tragic fire at a guest accommodation facility in Hauz Rani, Malviya Nagar, where 22 people lost their lives, including 13 foreign nationals. Officials are now focusing on the property’s management structure, licensing process, and adherence to mandatory safety regulations.

Employee Played Key Operational Role

According to sources familiar with the inquiry, arrested employee Jay Mishra was responsible for overseeing a significant portion of the property’s daily operations. The establishment reportedly functioned in two separate shifts, with Mishra supervising staff activities and handling various administrative responsibilities.

Mishra surrendered before a Delhi court and was subsequently arrested on Monday in connection with the incident. Investigators have since questioned him extensively about the property’s management and operational practices.

Focus on Licensing Documents

One of the central aspects of the investigation involves the licensing process under which the bed-and-breakfast facility was operating. During questioning, Mishra allegedly informed investigators that he had provided his personal documents at the request of the property’s owner, Lavkesh Bajaj.

Authorities are now attempting to determine why an employee’s documents may have been used during the licensing process despite Bajaj being the registered owner of the establishment. Police are examining all available paperwork to understand whether any procedural irregularities occurred.

Authorities Examine Administrative Records

Sources indicate that Mishra was entrusted with a wide range of responsibilities, including employee scheduling, duty assignments, guest documentation, and general management tasks. Investigators have questioned him regarding guest registers, identification records, licensing files, and other administrative documents linked to the property.

Officials have been informed that many of these records were allegedly destroyed in the fire. However, investigators are independently verifying that claim as part of their ongoing inquiry.

Questions Raised About Movements During Incident

Police are also examining Mishra’s whereabouts at the time of the blaze. Investigators are attempting to establish whether he was present at the property when the fire broke out.

According to sources, he reportedly spent time moving around different parts of the city using public transportation while monitoring developments through media coverage. Authorities are reviewing available evidence to verify the sequence of events and his movements during the critical period.

Earlier Arrest and Technical Assessment Planned

The investigation has already led to the arrest of hotel chef Keshav Negi, who has been remanded to judicial custody. Police continue to gather evidence from multiple sources as they seek to determine the exact circumstances that led to the disaster.

Officials are also considering seeking assistance from IIT-Delhi for a detailed structural and fire-behaviour assessment. The proposed analysis is expected to help investigators understand how the flames spread so rapidly through the building.

Possible Cause Under Examination

While the final cause of the fire has not yet been established, investigators are examining the possibility that the blaze may have originated from an air fryer that was allegedly left switched on during tea preparation activities. Authorities have stressed that the investigation remains ongoing and that all potential causes are being evaluated before any conclusions are reached.

The tragedy has intensified scrutiny of safety standards and regulatory compliance at hospitality establishments across the city, with investigators continuing to piece together the events that resulted in one of Delhi’s deadliest recent fire incidents.