The investigation into one of Delhi's deadliest fire tragedies gathered pace on Thursday after a city court granted four days of police custody to the owner of the bed-and-breakfast where 21 people lost their lives. The order came as investigators argued that crucial aspects of the case remain unresolved and several employees linked to the property are yet to be examined.
The fire, which ripped through the establishment in the Malviya Nagar-Hauz Rani area, has triggered intense scrutiny over safety practices, operational procedures and the circumstances that may have contributed to the scale of the disaster.
Police cite unanswered questions in ongoing investigation
According to News 18, seeking custodial interrogation, Delhi Police informed the court that several members of the hotel's staff had not yet been identified or questioned. Investigators alleged that the accused disclosed only limited information about employees working at the premises and failed to provide complete details that could assist the probe.
The prosecution argued that further questioning was necessary to establish the roles and responsibilities of individuals associated with the property. Police also expressed concern that witnesses and staff members who are yet to be examined could potentially be influenced if the accused remained out of custody.
Investigators are attempting to reconstruct events leading up to the fire and determine whether lapses in management or safety compliance played a role in the tragedy.
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Forensic examination remains a key focus
According to News 18, police told the court that a detailed forensic assessment of the building is still underway. According to investigators, access to parts of the property was initially restricted because of extreme temperatures and structural conditions following the blaze.
The forensic inspection is expected to help establish the exact origin of the fire and identify factors that may have accelerated its spread. Officials are also examining whether fire safety measures at the property were adequate and functioning at the time of the incident.
Findings from the forensic analysis are likely to play a crucial role in determining criminal liability and identifying additional individuals who may be held accountable.
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Court rejects challenge to arrest
According to News 18, during the hearing, the defence questioned the legality of the arrest and argued that established legal procedures had not been properly followed. Counsel for the accused maintained that his client had also suffered losses in the incident and sought his release.
Delhi Police countered these claims, stating that the grounds for arrest had been provided in writing and that the accused's wife had been formally informed through written communication.
After hearing submissions from both sides, the court ruled that the arrest was lawful and justified. It subsequently granted police four days of custody, allowing investigators additional time to pursue leads, question witnesses and examine evidence connected to the fatal fire that has shaken the national capital.
