The investigation into the deadly blaze that killed 21 people in Delhi has taken a shocking turn. The owner of the bed-and-breakfast where the tragedy unfolded has admitted that he drove past the burning building instead of stopping to help those trapped inside. The revelation emerged during police questioning in the ongoing Malviya Nagar fire.
Lavkesh Bajaj, owner of Flourish Stay B&B in Delhi’s Hauz Rani area, was arrested hours after the fire ripped through the five-storey establishment on Wednesday. During interrogation, Bajaj reportedly told police that he saw the building engulfed in flames but fled the scene out of fear.
Owner Wandered Around After Leaving Scene
According to investigators, Bajaj did not return home after leaving the spot. Instead, he spent hours moving around the city. His actions raised concerns among authorities, who feared he might attempt to leave the country.
Police had reportedly begun the process of issuing a lookout circular (LOC) against Bajaj and his wife because both of their children are settled abroad. The development has become a key focus of the Malviya Nagar fire investigation.
Alleged Violations Surface During Probe
Investigators have also uncovered alleged irregularities linked to the property. Bajaj reportedly started the business in a two-storey building before later adding two and a half additional floors.
During questioning, he confirmed that he had obtained a licence under Delhi’s Bed-and-Breakfast scheme. However, authorities claim the licence permitted only six rooms, while the property was allegedly operating 25 rooms, including several in the basement.
These alleged violations are now under scrutiny as officials examine whether they played a role in worsening the impact of the Malviya Nagar fire.
Police Search for Hotel Manager
Bajaj told investigators that he had handed over the day-to-day management of the property to Jai Mishra. He further claimed that the hotel’s licences had been issued in Mishra’s name.
Police are now searching for Mishra, whose role could prove crucial in the Malviya Nagar fire case. Investigators continue to examine possible lapses in safety compliance, licensing and management practices that may have contributed to the tragedy.
FAQs
Q: Why was the hotel owner arrested in the Malviya Nagar fire?
A: Lavkesh Bajaj was arrested after a fire at his B&B claimed 21 lives and investigators found alleged safety and licensing violations.
Q: What did the owner admit in the Malviya Nagar fire case?
A: He admitted that he drove past the burning building and fled the area instead of stopping to help.
Q: How many rooms was the property allegedly operating?
A: Authorities claim the B&B was operating 25 rooms despite having permission for only six under the BnB scheme.
Q: Who is Jai Mishra in the Malviya Nagar fire investigation?
A: Jai Mishra is the manager who allegedly handled the property’s operations. Police are currently searching for him.
