Hotel Owner Held After Delhi Fire Kills 21 as Authorities Launch Major Safety Crackdown

Days after a catastrophic fire claimed 21 lives in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar area, police have arrested the owner of the hotel at the center of the tragedy, while the administration has announced a judicial investigation into the incident.

The deadly blaze occurred in a hotel located in the Hauz Rani locality, where victims, including several foreign nationals, were trapped as the fire spread through the building. The disaster has become one of the most serious fire incidents reported in the city in recent times.

Police said hotel owner Lavkesh Bajaj disappeared after an FIR was filed in connection with the case. Investigators issued a lookout notice and conducted searches before successfully locating and arresting him.

The developments came shortly after an emergency meeting chaired by Delhi Lieutenant Governor Tarunjit Singh Sandhu. Senior officials from multiple departments attended the review session to assess the circumstances surrounding the fire and discuss preventive measures.

Authorities have now ordered a comprehensive month long inspection campaign targeting hotels, guest houses and other high risk establishments across Delhi. The initiative aims to identify safety lapses and improve emergency preparedness.

Officials have been instructed to take firm action against any property found violating fire safety regulations. Enforcement measures may include penalties and closure of establishments that fail to comply with mandatory standards.

A judicial inquiry has also been approved to determine how the fire occurred and whether any lapses contributed to the loss of life. Findings from the investigation are expected to guide future safety reforms.

The tragedy has renewed attention on building safety and emergency response systems, with authorities emphasizing that strict compliance with fire regulations is essential to protect lives and prevent future disasters.