The investigation into the hotel fire that tragically resulted in the deaths of 21 individuals in Malviya Nagar is intensifying. On Saturday, Delhi Police arrested Keshav Negi, a 55-year-old cook employed at the hotel, amid growing scrutiny over safety measures and operational discrepancies. Authorities reportedly believe that his negligence played a significant role in igniting the fire.

Officials from Delhi Police confirmed the arrest and noted that the interrogation process is ongoing. Several other individuals associated with the hotel have been detained for questioning as investigators strive to piece together the events that culminated in the deadly blaze at Flourish Stays Bed and Breakfast.

Police records indicate that Negi hails from the Dishad Garden area. Investigators are looking closely into the circumstances leading to the fire, which erupted on the morning of May 3, causing extensive loss of life, including that of a 16-year-old girl and foreign nationals from various countries such as Kyrgyzstan, Nigeria, Bangladesh, Iraq, Congo, Mozambique, and Liberia.

Safety Violations and Possible Legal Ramifications

The incident came to light shortly after the arrest of Lavkesh Bajaj, the owner of the hotel, who faces charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Authorities are examining claims of fire safety violations, illegal construction, and other operational lapses that may have exacerbated the situation. Preliminary reports show that the hotel was operating 28 rooms, although it had received clearance for only six.

Moreover, investigators have raised concerns about the hotel’s fire safety measures, highlighting deficiencies in both fire safety systems and ventilation. Reports indicate that the basement exit was locked at the time emergency services arrived, which necessitated breaking open the entrance to facilitate rescue operations.

Additionally, Jay Mishra, an associate and accountant for the hotel owner, has reportedly gone missing since the incident. His involvement in various documents related to the hotel has prompted authorities to initiate a search for him, including a team dispatched to Bihar to locate him.

Details of the Forensic Investigation and Ongoing Efforts

Forensic evaluations reveal that a majority of the victims succumbed to suffocation rather than burn injuries, underscoring the severity of the incident. Officials also observed that although fire extinguishers were available inside the premises, they went unused during the emergency, suggesting significant lapses in emergency preparedness.

As the investigation continues, forensic teams are collecting samples, including charred wiring and electronic devices. This analysis aims to ascertain whether a short circuit, electrical overload, or another technical malfunction might have been the initial cause of the fire.

With the investigation broadened to include questioning of both hotel staff and individuals related to the property, authorities anticipate that further developments will clarify accountability in what is being described as one of the most catastrophic fire incidents the capital has witnessed in recent years.

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