Delhi Govindpuri Fire. (IMG INTERNET)
New Delhi: A breakthrough in the investigation into the deadly Govindpuri fire has led Delhi Police to conclude that the blaze was a planned act of arson. The fire, which erupted in a five-storey residential building earlier this week, claimed three lives and left several others injured.
Investigators say CCTV footage played a crucial role in uncovering the alleged conspiracy behind the incident.
According to police officials, surveillance footage showed a masked woman entering the building shortly before the fire broke out. The woman had reportedly covered her face and head before entering the premises and was seen leaving soon afterward.
The footage prompted investigators to examine the possibility of deliberate sabotage rather than an accidental fire. Following further inquiries, police concluded that the blaze had been intentionally set.
As the probe progressed, police apprehended a 17-year-old girl who allegedly admitted to setting a scooter on fire inside the building. During questioning, she claimed that she had been persuaded by a woman identified as Sarita to carry out the act.
Investigators said the teenager was allegedly provided with petrol and a matchbox. The alleged target was a scooter belonging to a resident named Deepak, who lived on the fifth floor of the building.
Police believe the incident stemmed from a financial dispute involving Deepak and Sarita.
Further investigation led to the arrest of Sarita, who allegedly disclosed that the plan had been orchestrated by two brothers, Niranjan and Rajkumar, as part of a personal vendetta.
Based on the findings, police have arrested all four accused, including the minor. Additional charges, including criminal conspiracy, culpable homicide, attempted culpable homicide, mischief by fire, and house trespass at night, have been added to the case.
The fire broke out on June 12 in Tughlakabad Extension. The victims were identified as Pankaj, his grandmother Sushila Devi, and his sister Soni Kumari.
Several others, including members of the same family, suffered serious injuries and remain under treatment at hospitals in Delhi. Police said the investigation is ongoing and further details may emerge in the coming days.
