Blaze in Delhi's Malviya Nagar: Safety Violations Under Scrutiny

A devastating fire in Malviya Nagar, Delhi, has led to 15 hospitalizations at Max Hospital. Among these patients, 13 are international. The fire claimed 21 lives, exposing severe fire safety violations. Delhi's government vows stringent action as investigations continue into the tragic incident.

A total of 15 patients remain in Max Hospital, Saket Complex, following a catastrophic fire at a bed-and-breakfast in Delhi's Malviya Nagar, including 13 international patients, the hospital announced on Saturday.

The hospital reported that one patient remains on ventilator support, and five others were successfully removed from ventilators today. All are stable, receiving specialized medical care, and continue to improve. Fourteen patients are receiving treatment in the ICU and wards, with their conditions assessed as stable.

In response to the tragedy, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta promised swift action against officials for fire safety oversights, unauthorized structures, and risks to human life. The laws are strictly applied, with penalties including up to two years in prison and substantial fines.

A court remanded Lovkesh Bajaj, owner of Flourish Stays Hotel, to four days of police custody on charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), such as culpable homicide and negligent fire conduct, amid the tragic loss of 21 lives, including 17 from abroad.

Investigations revealed multiple safety breaches, with sealed windows blocking smoke escape and a locked basement complicating rescue efforts, where six to seven people were eventually saved. Officials criticize the building's grave fire safety deficiencies.