NEW DELHI: The probe into the Malviya Nagar hotel fire that killed 21 people has widened, Delhi Police on Thursday found a blocked roof exit and cooking heaters being used in several guest rooms, according to news agency PTI.
Accrding to police said locals, shopkeepers, hotel staff and witnesses are being questioned to understand the sequence of events. Police have formed five teams to trace and arrest hotel manager Jai Mishra, who remains absconding. Investigators are examining multiple aspects of the incident, including possible violations of building rules, fire safety lapses, illegal construction, ownership details of the bed-and-breakfast property and other factors that may have led to the high death toll. Police are also searching for an eyewitness, Kesar Singh, whose statement is considered important in establishing how the fire started and spread. Police believe Bajaj had the option to leave the country as his children live abroad. A Look Out Circular has been issued against him and his wife as a precaution. Police have arrested hotel owner Lavkesh Bajaj and booked him under charges including culpable homicide. The case includes sections related to negligence, fire-related damage and endangering human life under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Investigation into Fatal Fire Continues
Authorities confirmed that the bodies of foreign nationals who perished in the recent fire will be returned to their families and embassies following DNA testing and the completion of necessary legal procedures. The investigation into the cause of the fire remains ongoing.