Tragic Hotel Fire in Delhi: Investigation Reveals Shocking Details
A devastating fire at a hotel in Malviya Nagar, Delhi, has resulted in the loss of 21 lives, prompting an urgent investigation. The head chef, Keshav Negi, has been detained after revealing that an explosion from an electric stove ignited the blaze. In a panic, he shut off the hotel's power supply, which disabled the electronic door locking system, trapping guests inside. Authorities are now scrutinizing the hotel management's negligence and the implications of the malfunctioning safety systems. This incident raises critical questions about fire safety protocols in hospitality establishments.
| Jun 7, 2026, 12:33 IST
Investigation Underway After Fatal Hotel Fire
Following the tragic hotel fire in Malviya Nagar, Delhi, which claimed the lives of 21 individuals, authorities are diligently investigating the causes of the blaze. A startling revelation has emerged during this inquiry. The head chef, Keshav Negi, who was present in the kitchen at the time of the incident, was taken into custody by police after approximately six hours of questioning on Saturday. His statements have shed light on how the disaster escalated so severely.
Explosion in Electric Stove Ignites Fire
According to sources within the Delhi police, Chef Negi reported that while he was working in the kitchen on Wednesday morning, a loud explosion occurred as he turned on the electric stove. This blast ignited a fierce fire throughout the kitchen, with flames spreading rapidly throughout the multi-story building.
A Critical Mistake Leads to Locked Exits
One of the most alarming findings from the investigation is that Chef Negi panicked upon seeing the fire and smoke. In his haste to escape, he shut off the main power supply for the entire hotel without considering the consequences. This action led to the malfunction of the building's electronic door locking system, which controls the automatic doors to rooms and exits.
As soon as the power was cut, all the locks jammed, trapping guests inside their rooms.
Delhi Police Investigating Negligence
Investigators believe that had the electronic locking system been operational, guests could have evacuated through emergency exits in a timely manner. However, the power outage rendered all escape routes inaccessible, resulting in fatalities due to smoke inhalation and burns. Currently, the Delhi police are meticulously examining the extent of negligence on the part of the hotel management and staff in this tragic incident.