Delhi Hotel Fire: Approved for 6 rooms, but operating 25? Probe uncovers troubling claims

Did profit come before safety? The owner of the Delhi hotel where 21 people died in a devastating fire has allegedly admitted operating far more rooms than permitted, raising serious questions about oversight.

Owner Lavkesh Bajaj Admits Running 25 Rooms (Image: Internet)

New Delhi: The investigation into the devastating fire at a hotel in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar has taken a significant turn, with the property owner allegedly admitting to increasing the number of rooms far beyond the approved limit to boost earnings. The blaze, which tore through the building on Wednesday morning, claimed 21 lives and left several others injured.

Hotel owner Lavkesh Bajaj was arrested hours after the incident and is now at the centre of an expanding probe into alleged safety violations and operational irregularities.

Approved for Six Rooms, Operated as a Much Larger Facility

According to police sources, Bajaj told investigators that the property had permission to operate only six rooms under the bed-and-breakfast scheme. However, he allegedly expanded the accommodation capacity to around 25 rooms as the business became increasingly profitable.

During questioning, Bajaj reportedly stated that he believed such violations often went unchecked. Investigators are also examining claims that the establishment lacked a mandatory fire department No Objection Certificate (NOC).

Safety Concerns Under Intense Scrutiny

Authorities are focusing on whether critical safety norms were ignored. Officials said the five-storey building had a single entry and exit point, sealed windows and a sensor-controlled main door. These features are believed to have severely restricted escape routes when the fire spread through the property.

The incident has raised fresh concerns about compliance with fire safety regulations in commercial establishments operating in residential areas.

Owner Allegedly Left Scene After Fire Broke Out

Police sources said Bajaj admitted that he left the area shortly after the fire erupted, claiming he panicked. Investigators allege he remained untraceable for several hours before being located and arrested.

During interrogation, Bajaj reportedly informed police that he had acquired the building around three years ago and converted it into a hotel-cum-guest house. Authorities are now verifying documents related to licences, permissions and ownership records.

Rescue Efforts Saved Dozens

Emergency responders, along with local residents, carried out rescue operations as flames engulfed the structure. A total of 58 people were rescued and shifted to nearby hospitals. However, 21 victims lost their lives, including several members of an extended family staying at the hotel.

Police are expected to seek custodial remand as the investigation continues.