A devastating fire at the Flourish Stay hotel in Delhi's Malviya Nagar area has resulted in the deaths of 21 people, including 12 foreign nationals who were reportedly in India for medical treatment. The blaze, which started in a basement restaurant on Wednesday, rapidly spread through the five-storey building, leading survivors to jump from higher floors to escape the flames.
Arrest and Safety Violations
The hotel owner, Lavkesh Bajaj, has been detained for operating 26 rooms, significantly exceeding the permissible limit, and lacking a crucial fire department no-objection certificate. The Delhi government has initiated a crackdown on properties violating fire safety regulations.
Response and Criticism
Locals and opposition leaders have criticised the fire department for an alleged slow response, claiming vehicles arrived almost an hour late despite a nearby fire station. The department refutes these claims, stating they dispatched eight tenders promptly.
India's foreign minister is in contact with relevant embassies to provide assistance to the victims' families. The Delhi government has announced compensation of Rs1 million for the families of each deceased victim.
