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Cook’s big revelation in Delhi Malviya Nagar fire case (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: Delhi Police have arrested cook Keshav Negi in connection with the devastating fire at a Malviya Nagar bed-and-breakfast that claimed 21 lives, including several foreign nationals.
Authorities say preliminary investigation points to negligence as the primary cause of the blaze.
During interrogation, Negi reportedly told investigators that the fire began after he switched on an electric stove in the kitchen on Wednesday morning. He claimed the appliance suddenly exploded, triggering flames that spread rapidly through the building.
Negligence On His Part: Cook arrested in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar hotel fire case that killed 21
He also said he panicked as smoke engulfed the premises.
According to police sources, Negi allegedly switched off the main power supply while attempting to control the situation before fleeing the site. Investigators are now examining whether this decision had unintended consequences, particularly on the building’s safety systems.
Officials suspect that cutting power may have disabled the property’s electronic door locking system, potentially trapping guests inside during the fire. The role of emergency exits and access systems has become a key focus of the ongoing investigation into the high casualty count.
Police said Negi was detained and questioned for several hours before being formally arrested. The investigation is also examining safety compliance at the property and whether fire protocols were in place.
The fire has raised serious concerns about building safety standards and emergency preparedness in densely populated hospitality establishments.
Authorities continue to investigate how the blaze escalated so quickly and whether structural or operational lapses contributed to the loss of life.
