The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, June 10: The investigation into the devastating fire at a guest accommodation facility in South Delhi has uncovered new details regarding its management structure and licensing process, prompting authorities to scrutinize potential violations and administrative lapses linked to the tragedy.
According to officials familiar with the probe, investigators have questioned the property’s owner, Lavkesh Bajaj, and accountant Jai Mishra, both of whom were arrested after the June 3 blaze at Flourish Stay B&B in Hauz Rani that resulted in 21 deaths and multiple injuries.
During the inquiry, Mishra reportedly informed police that his personal documents had been used while obtaining the establishment’s bed-and-breakfast licence. He stated that although the paperwork carried his credentials, the application process and overall ownership remained under Bajaj’s control.
The disclosure has raised questions about how regulatory approvals were granted and whether proper procedures were followed. Investigators are now examining records related to the issuance and renewal of licences, while also exploring the possibility of irregularities during the approval process.
Officials said preliminary findings indicate that Mishra played a significant role in the hotel’s daily administration. Apart from handling financial matters, he allegedly supervised staff operations, managed work schedules, maintained guest records and oversaw several compliance-related responsibilities.
Investigators believe he was also involved in maintaining documentation connected to licensing requirements, legal formalities and safety obligations. His exact level of responsibility in ensuring adherence to fire safety norms remains a key focus of the ongoing probe.
When questioned about guest registers and official records, Mishra reportedly claimed that all documents had been stored on the premises and were destroyed during the fire. Police are attempting to verify this statement by collecting information from government agencies, digital databases and other external sources to reconstruct the hotel’s operational history.
Authorities have also traced Mishra’s movements on the day of the incident. Investigators said he arrived at the property after learning about the fire and reached the location while emergency rescue operations were underway. However, he later left the site and allegedly travelled across different parts of Delhi using public transport.
Police are examining why he departed from the scene and what actions he took before making contact with investigators. His movements during that period are being reviewed as part of the broader investigation.
The June 3 blaze is considered one of the deadliest hotel-related fire incidents witnessed in the national capital in recent years. Among the victims were several foreign nationals, drawing widespread attention to questions surrounding safety compliance and regulatory oversight.
Officials said the investigation is now focusing on possible negligence, violations of fire safety standards and whether any shortcomings in licensing and operational procedures contributed to the scale of the disaster. Further action is expected as forensic findings and documentary evidence continue to emerge
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