Delhi Hotel Fire Probe Deepens: Owner’s fake passport case, locked terrace and safety lapses under scanner

New Delhi: The investigation into the devastating fire at a hotel in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar has taken a significant turn, with authorities examining the background of the arrested hotel owner alongside alleged safety violations at the property.

Owner’s Previous Legal Troubles Surface

Police sources have revealed that Flourish Hotel owner Lovkesh Bajaj had previously been arrested in connection with an alleged fake passport racket. The case, registered in January 2025, involved allegations of forged Indian documents and passports being provided to Bangladeshi nationals. During that investigation, Bajaj was arrested and reportedly spent around 15 days in Tihar Jail before obtaining bail. The matter remains pending before a court.

Search Underway for Hotel Staff

Investigators are also looking for hotel accountant Jai Mishra and manager Rakesh, who are believed to possess important information related to the fire incident. Mishra, a resident of Delhi’s Chhatarpur area, has reportedly not been traceable since the tragedy. Authorities are identifying and questioning other staff members who were present when the fire broke out.

Allegations of Safety Lapses

Preliminary findings have raised concerns about the hotel’s emergency preparedness. Investigators suspect that access to a terrace room had been locked from the outside, potentially preventing guests from reaching the rooftop during the emergency. Several occupants allegedly attempted to escape through windows after finding evacuation routes inaccessible.

Court Grants Police Custody

In a key development, the Saket Court has remanded Bajaj to four days of police custody. During questioning, he reportedly told investigators that he left the scene out of fear after the fire and spent time moving around the city instead of returning home.

Expansion Plans Under Scrutiny

According to police sources, Bajaj informed investigators that he purchased the building about three years ago. He allegedly acknowledged increasing the number of rooms after the business became profitable. Authorities are now examining whether these additions were made with the necessary approvals and whether fire safety norms were compromised.

Investigators are currently reviewing building permissions, safety certifications and operational records to determine responsibility. The tragedy has renewed concerns about fire safety compliance and unauthorized structural modifications in commercial establishments across Delhi.