Delhi Police have arrested the cook of the hotel where a devastating blaze claimed 21 lives earlier this week. The latest development comes as investigators continue to probe the circumstances that led to the tragedy and identify those responsible in the Malviya Nagar fire case.
Keshav Negi, the cook at Flourish Inn in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar, was taken into custody three days after the fire. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday morning, killed 21 guests, including nine Indians and 12 foreign nationals.
What Police Found During Investigation
According to police sources, Negi’s alleged negligence played a key role in the rapid spread of the fire. Investigators claim that after an electric stove reportedly exploded in the hotel kitchen, Negi switched off the main power supply before fleeing the building.
The investigation suggests that this action may have worsened the situation in the Malviya Nagar fire case. Officials believe the power shutdown caused the hotel’s electronic doors to lock, trapping several guests inside as smoke and flames spread through the property.
Earlier, Negi had told media outlets that he turned off the main switch after the stove explosion and escaped the hotel amid thick smoke to save his life.
Why the Arrest Was Made
Police sources say multiple guests were unable to exit the building because of the locked electronic doors. Among the victims were a husband and wife who reportedly died of suffocation inside a bathroom after failing to open the door.
Authorities now allege that Negi’s actions contributed to the deaths and hampered evacuation efforts during the emergency. His arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing Malviya Nagar fire case.
The hotel owner, Lavkesh Bajaj, was arrested earlier in connection with the incident. Several other individuals have also been detained and questioned as investigators continue examining possible lapses in safety protocols and management responsibilities in the Malviya Nagar fire case.
The tragedy has raised serious concerns about fire safety compliance in hotels and guest houses across Delhi. Officials are expected to continue their probe to determine accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future. The Malviya Nagar fire case remains under active investigation.
FAQs
Q: Why was the cook arrested in the Malviya Nagar fire case?
A: Delhi Police allege that the cook’s actions after the stove explosion contributed to guests getting trapped inside the hotel.
Q: How many people died in the Malviya Nagar fire case?
A: A total of 21 guests lost their lives, including nine Indians and 12 foreign nationals.
Q: Who else has been arrested in the Malviya Nagar fire case?
A: Hotel owner Lavkesh Bajaj was arrested earlier, while several others are being questioned.
Q: What caused the fire at the hotel?
A: Investigators are examining claims that an electric stove explosion triggered the blaze, though the probe is still ongoing.
