Malviya Nagar Fire: Hotel owner claims ‘Everything Works in Delhi’, blames others for safety lapses

The investigation into the deadly Malviya Nagar hotel fire has taken a new turn after Hotel Flourish Stays co-owner Lovkesh Bajaj allegedly shifted responsibility for safety and operational lapses to others. Bajaj, who was arrested following the tragedy that claimed 21 lives, reportedly told investigators that he was not directly involved in the day-to-day management of the property.

According to police sources, Bajaj claimed another individual handled billing, accounts and overall operations of the hotel. He also allegedly said that structural modifications, including room expansions, were carried out on the advice of others who assured him that such practices were common and that “everything works in Delhi.”

Investigators have found that the hotel was operating nearly four times beyond its approved capacity and lacked a mandatory fire safety clearance. Officials are also probing unauthorized structural changes, including additional floors and room expansions, which may have contributed to the scale of the disaster.

Police are verifying records related to building approvals, electricity connections and ownership details linked to the property. Preliminary findings suggest the fire may have started near a staircase on the ground floor and spread rapidly through the building, where sealed windows reportedly left occupants with limited escape options.

Authorities are expected to seek further custodial interrogation of Bajaj as they investigate possible negligence and the involvement of other individuals connected to the hotel's operations.