A hotel was converted from a residential house, the system kept sleeping; Flourish Stay incident exposes B&B policy

New Delhi: After the horrific fire incident at Flourish Stay in Hauz Rani, investigation has revealed many shocking facts. Initial investigation has revealed that most of the rules of the license on the basis of which this establishment was being operated were violated. The place which had got permission as a Bed and Breakfast (B&B) with a limited number of rooms, was running hotel-like activities on a large scale.

What is the B&B policy?

Actually, the objective of the B&B policy started in the year 2007 was to provide additional accommodation facilities to the tourists. Under this scheme, the landlord could give some rooms of his house on rent, but many conditions were set for this. According to the rules, it was mandatory for the owner to live with his family in the same premises and only a maximum of six rooms could be given to tourists. Also, the number of rooms to be given on rent could not exceed two-thirds of the total rooms.

Investigation revealed that Flourish Stay was allowed to operate only six rooms, but around 25 rooms were being operated there. This makes it clear that business activities were being conducted many times more than the prescribed limit of license. Not only this, despite the property being used commercially, electricity and water supply was being taken at domestic rates, due to which economic benefits were also being availed.

This case has also raised questions on the functioning of various government agencies. The Municipal Corporation, Delhi Jal Board and the Electricity Distribution Company should have had such signals which could have revealed the increased activities. Despite this, no effective action was taken at any level for a long time.

Discussion intensifies regarding the role of police

The discussion regarding the role of police has also intensified. Earlier, police verification and approval was required for the operation of such establishments, but after the change in rules in the year 2025, this process was abolished. After this the monitoring system became weaker than before.

The Flourish Stay incident has raised the question as to why timely action was not taken against such establishments that have been running by ignoring the rules for years. This case has sparked serious debate about administrative oversight, accountability and security standards.