New Delhi, June 10: The investigation into the devastating Malviya Nagar fire tragedy, which claimed 22 lives, gathered pace on Wednesday as a court in Saket sent two key accused — Flourish Stay Guest House owner Lovkesh Bajaj and accountant Jai Mishra — to judicial custody.
During the court proceedings, Delhi Police informed the court that the ongoing investigation requires a detailed confrontation between the two accused to verify crucial facts and establish individual responsibilities in connection with the incident.
According to investigating officers, face-to-face questioning of the accused is considered necessary to cross-check statements, examine discrepancies and reconstruct the sequence of events leading up to the deadly fire.
Police further submitted that they may seek additional custodial interrogation of the accused if required as fresh evidence emerges during the course of the investigation.
The tragic blaze, which occurred at the guest house in Malviya Nagar, has emerged as one of the deadliest fire incidents reported in the national capital in recent years, resulting in the loss of 22 lives and raising serious questions about safety compliance and operational lapses at the establishment.
Investigators are currently examining multiple aspects of the case, including fire safety measures, emergency preparedness, building permissions, staff responsibilities and the circumstances that may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
So far, Delhi Police have arrested three individuals in connection with the incident. These include guest house owner Lovkesh Bajaj, accountant Jai Mishra, and Keshav Negi, a cook employed at the establishment.
Officials said statements of witnesses, staff members and survivors are being recorded while forensic and technical evidence is also being analysed as part of the investigation.
Delhi Police maintained that all angles are being thoroughly examined and further legal action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
The probe remains underway.
