Malviya Nagar Hotel Fire
New Delhi: A massive fire at the Flourish Stay B&B in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area has left at least 21 people dead, including 12 foreign nationals. The blaze erupted on Wednesday and quickly engulfed the building, trapping several guests inside.
Among the victims was an African couple who had travelled to India for IVF treatment, turning their medical journey into a heartbreaking tragedy.
Rescue workers discovered the couple inside a ground-floor bathroom, where they had reportedly taken shelter from the spreading flames and thick smoke.
A hospital staff member involved in the rescue described the scene as deeply distressing. The couple was found seated close together, with their arms wrapped around each other, appearing to have sought comfort in their final moments.
According to local sources, the couple had been staying at the hotel while undergoing fertility treatment at a nearby hospital. Their stay in Delhi was meant to support their medical journey before the tragedy struck.
Following the incident, Delhi Police arrested hotel owner Lavkesh Bajaj, who has been sent to four days of police custody. Authorities are also searching for the hotel manager, who remains absconding.
Preliminary findings suggest serious safety lapses, including blocked rooftop exits and the use of cooking appliances inside guest rooms. Officials also allege that the hotel was operating far beyond its permitted capacity.
The building was reportedly authorised for only six rooms but was allegedly accommodating around 25 guests. Investigators are examining multiple safety violations that may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
Police have registered a case under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including negligence and culpable homicide not amounting to murder. As the investigation continues, the tragedy has highlighted serious concerns over fire safety compliance in densely packed guest accommodations across the capital.
