Investigation Intensifies into Deadly Hotel Fire in South Delhi

A devastating fire at the 'Flourish Stay Hotel' in South Delhi has resulted in 21 fatalities and numerous injuries. The investigation has intensified, leading to the arrest of the head chef and hotel owner for negligence and illegal activities. Safety violations, including the absence of a fire safety certificate, have been uncovered, prompting government action. This incident raises serious concerns about fire safety regulations in the capital. Read on for more details about the ongoing investigation and the implications for those involved.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 6, 2026, 13:37 IST

Rapid Investigation Following Tragic Hotel Blaze

The investigation into the devastating fire at the 'Flourish Stay Hotel' in Malviya Nagar, South Delhi, has accelerated significantly. This tragic incident resulted in the loss of 21 lives, with 28 others suffering serious injuries. On Saturday, the Delhi police made a significant move by arresting the hotel's head chef, identified as 65-year-old Keshav Negi, a resident of Dilshad Garden in Delhi. Preliminary police investigations revealed that the fire originated from the kitchen due to Negi's gross negligence, quickly engulfing the entire five-story building.

Serious Safety Violations Exposed

The fire broke out on June 3 at the 'Flourish Stay Hotel' located in the Hauz Rani area of Malviya Nagar. The flames spread rapidly throughout the building, trapping many individuals inside. This incident is among the deadliest fires in recent years in the national capital.

Investigators discovered multiple safety regulation violations within the building. Allegations suggest that the hotel operated without the necessary 'Fire No Objection Certificate' (NOC). Officials also noted that there was only one entry and exit point, windows were permanently sealed, and the main door operated via a sensor, complicating evacuation during the emergency.

Casualties and Arrests

Among the deceased, there were 10 Indian nationals, nine Africans, and two citizens from Turkmenistan.

Shortly after the incident, the hotel owner, Lovkesh Bajaj, was arrested by the Delhi police. Following the issuance of a 'Look-Out Circular' (LOC) against Bajaj and his wife, a thorough search operation led to their capture.

Bajaj faces charges under several sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including involuntary manslaughter, causing damage by fire, endangering life, and negligence related to fire safety.

Legal Proceedings and Immigration Issues

A Saket court has remanded Bajaj to four days of police custody for further investigation into the incident. Additionally, he is facing legal action in a separate case concerning illegal immigration.

During questioning, Bajaj admitted to allowing Bangladeshi nationals Sweety Sarkar and her daughter Pushpo Sarkar to use his address in Chhatarpur to obtain Indian identification documents, such as Aadhaar cards and passports, in exchange for money.

The police reported that the accused were residing in Delhi using these fraudulently obtained documents. Following the investigation, Bajaj, Sweety Sarkar, and Pushpo Sarkar were arrested, and a charge sheet has been filed in court.

Government Response and Safety Review

In the wake of this tragic event, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta convened a high-level meeting to review fire safety regulations in the capital and address illegal constructions.

The Delhi government has stated that strict action will be taken against anyone found responsible for this incident, including the building owner, officials, and others whose negligence may have contributed to the loss of life and property.