The owner of the south Delhi hotel gutted in a massive fire that killed at least 21 people was identified as Lokesh Bajaj, who was on the run, sources said on Wednesday, as investigators widened their probe into the tragedy that unfolded in Malviya Nagar’s Hauz Rani area.
Sources said the Flourish Stay bed-and-breakfast hotel, where the fire broke out earlier in the day, was being operated by three partners.
The partners are also believed to own several other hotels and guest houses, raising questions over safety compliance and operational standards across their establishments.
Authorities are now expected to examine the ownership structure, licensing records and fire safety clearances of the property as part of the ongoing investigation.
The blaze
erupted at the hotel located in the congested Hauz Rani locality and rapidly spread through the multi-storey building, trapping dozens of occupants inside.
Thick smoke engulfed the premises as panic-stricken guests attempted to escape through windows and balconies.
Officials said at least 21 people died in the incident, while more than 40 others were rescued.
Several of the deceased are believed to be foreign nationals.
Many of the injured remain in critical condition, officials said, adding that the death toll could rise further.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as residents rushed to help trapped guests before emergency teams reached the spot.
According to news agency PTI, a woman carrying a young child jumped from the third floor of the burning building after residents spread mattresses on the road below in an attempt to cushion the fall.
Witnesses said the woman survived the jump along with the child, though she appeared to have suffered injuries and was immediately taken to a nearby hospital.
Residents said mattress shop owners and other locals acted swiftly by placing mattresses beneath windows as several occupants screamed for help and tried to break glass panes amid the spreading flames.
Firefighters and rescue teams carried out operations for hours before bringing the blaze under control.
The exact cause of the fire was yet not determined.
