The investigation into the devastating fire at a bed and breakfast in Delhi's Hauz Rani area has taken a significant turn, with police arresting the property's chef over allegations that his actions may have contributed to the high death toll.
The blaze, which tore through Flourish Stay Bed and Breakfast in Malviya Nagar's Hauz Rani locality, claimed 21 lives and has triggered a wider probe into possible safety violations and operational lapses at the establishment.
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What the Chef Told Investigators
Sources said Negi told police that the fire started shortly after he switched on an electric stove in the kitchen. He allegedly claimed that the appliance exploded, triggering a massive blaze that quickly spread through the property.
As smoke filled the building and panic set in, Negi is suspected of switching off the main power supply before fleeing the premises. This decision has become a key focus of the investigation.
Chef Arrested After Hours of Questioning
Police on Saturday arrested 65-year-old Keshav Negi, a resident of Dilshad Garden who worked as the chef at the B&B. According to investigators, Negi was questioned for nearly six hours before being taken into custody. During interrogation, police reconstructed the sequence of events that unfolded on the morning of the fire.
Officials are examining whether his actions during the emergency played a role in trapping guests inside the building.
How a Power Shutdown May Have Worsened the Tragedy
Investigators believe the building's electronic door-locking system stopped functioning after the power supply was cut. Police suspect that several occupants were unable to escape because access routes became blocked when the electronic locking system failed during the fire.
Authorities are now examining whether the power shutdown significantly reduced the chances of evacuation for guests trapped inside the building.
Couple Found Dead Inside Bathroom
Among the victims was a husband and wife who were discovered inside a bathroom. According to police, the couple may have suffocated after being unable to open the door and escape as smoke spread through the property.
The incident has raised serious concerns about emergency exits and evacuation mechanisms at the establishment.
Police Cite Alleged Negligence
Investigators have indicated that Negi's conduct is under scrutiny as part of the criminal investigation. “Investigation has revealed negligence on part of the chef, which may have contributed to the circumstances leading to the deaths,” a police source said, adding that further interrogation is on.
Officials are continuing to gather evidence to determine the extent of responsibility for the tragedy.
B&B Owner Already Arrested
Before the chef's arrest, police had taken B&B owner Lovkesh Bajaj into custody. He has been booked on charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder.
The case has expanded beyond the fire itself, with investigators examining whether the property violated multiple safety and operational regulations.
Alleged Violations Under Investigation
According to the FIR, the B&B was operating 28 rooms despite reportedly having permission for only six. Authorities are also investigating allegations of:
Unauthorised construction
Fire safety deficiencies
Operational lapses
Inadequate emergency systems
Investigators further alleged that the basement exit was locked when rescue teams arrived at the scene, forcing firefighters to break open the entrance during rescue operations.
Search Underway for Absconding Associate
Police are also searching for Jay Mishra, an associate and accountant linked to the establishment.
Officials said Mishra has been absconding since the incident and multiple teams have been deployed to trace him. Several employees and individuals connected to the property are currently being questioned as investigators continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding one of Delhi's deadliest recent fire tragedies.
With 21 lives lost, the Hauz Rani B&B fire has intensified scrutiny of safety standards at guest houses and hospitality establishments.
Investigators are now focusing on whether alleged negligence, unauthorised operations, and failures in emergency preparedness contributed to the scale of the disaster. The findings of the ongoing probe are expected to determine accountability for the tragedy and whether additional arrests follow.
(With TOI inputs)
