The death toll in the devastating Malviya Nagar hotel fire in south Delhi has risen to 23 after a Bangladeshi national undergoing treatment for severe burn injuries succumbed at a hospital on Wednesday night. The tragedy, one of the deadliest fire incidents in the national capital in recent years, has intensified scrutiny of safety violations and emergency preparedness at commercial establishments.
The fire broke out on June 3 at a bed-and-breakfast facility in the Hauz Rani area of Malviya Nagar. Initial reports indicated that 21 people were killed in the blaze, including several foreign nationals. The death toll later rose to 22 after another injured victim died during treatment, and has now reached 23 with the latest casualty.
Investigators have uncovered multiple alleged safety lapses at the establishment. Preliminary findings suggest the building was operating without adequate fire-safety compliance, while reports have pointed to expired fire extinguishers, unauthorized construction, and violations of building regulations. Authorities are examining whether these shortcomings contributed to the high number of casualties.
The tragedy has also taken a dramatic turn with police alleging that a chef working at the facility switched off the main power supply during the fire and fled the premises. Investigators believe the action may have worsened conditions inside the building by trapping guests and hampering evacuation efforts. The allegation is a key focus of the ongoing probe.
Many of the victims were visitors staying in the hotel for medical treatment or to visit relatives admitted to nearby hospitals. Among those killed were members of a Gurugram family who had travelled to Delhi to see an ailing relative. Several foreign nationals from countries including Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, and Liberia were also among the victims.
Police have arrested the hotel owner and an accountant in connection with the case, while investigations continue into possible negligence and violations of fire-safety norms. A Delhi court has remanded both accused to judicial custody as authorities gather evidence and examine accountability for the disaster.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns over fire safety in Delhi. Official data shows that more than 500 people have died in fire-related accidents across the city since 2019, prompting renewed calls for stricter enforcement of building regulations and regular safety audits.
As families mourn their loved ones, authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the blaze and determine whether criminal negligence played a role in the tragedy that has now claimed 23 lives.
