NEW DELHI: The owner of the building where a devastating fire claimed 21 lives in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar has reportedly gone missing after police registered a criminal case in connection with the tragedy. Authorities have launched a search operation to trace those responsible as investigations into possible negligence and safety violations gather pace.
The massive blaze erupted on Wednesday at a building housing a restaurant and accommodation facilities, triggering panic among occupants and nearby residents. Thick smoke quickly engulfed the structure, trapping several people inside. Firefighters and emergency responders rushed to the scene and carried out rescue operations for hours.
According to officials, at least 21 people lost their lives while several others suffered injuries. Many of the victims were reportedly staying in the area for medical treatment. Hospitals across the capital admitted numerous burn victims, some of whom remain in critical condition.
Following preliminary findings, Delhi Police registered an FIR against the hotel management and other individuals linked to the establishment. Investigators are examining whether mandatory fire safety measures were ignored and whether the property was operating in violation of civic and safety regulations.
Police sources said that after the case was registered, the hotel owner could not be located and is believed to have fled. Teams have been formed to track the accused, and authorities are conducting raids at multiple locations. Officials stated that strict action will be taken against anyone found responsible for lapses that may have contributed to the disaster.
Investigators are also reviewing documents related to building permissions, fire clearances, occupancy limits and operational licenses. Authorities are attempting to determine whether emergency exits, firefighting equipment and evacuation protocols were in place and functioning at the time of the incident.
Eyewitnesses recounted terrifying scenes as flames spread rapidly through the building. Several occupants were seen trying to escape through windows and balconies. Local residents joined rescue efforts before emergency teams arrived in large numbers.
The Delhi Fire Service deployed multiple fire tenders to control the blaze. Rescue personnel worked through dense smoke to evacuate trapped individuals and prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent structures. The operation continued for several hours before the fire was fully brought under control.
The exact cause of the blaze remains under investigation. Forensic experts have been called in to examine the site and collect evidence. Officials said it is too early to draw final conclusions until technical assessments are completed.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced ex gratia assistance from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. An amount of ₹2 lakh will be provided to the families of each deceased victim, while ₹50,000 will be given to those injured in the incident.
The tragedy has once again brought attention to fire safety concerns in commercial establishments across the national capital. Civic authorities are expected to intensify inspections of hotels, restaurants and guest houses to ensure compliance with safety norms.
As the investigation progresses, police are focusing on locating the absconding owner and establishing whether negligence, regulatory violations or other factors played a role in one of Delhi’s deadliest fire disasters in recent years.
