Delhi Hotel Owner Drove Past Burning Building, Didn't Stop 'Out Of Fear'

The investigation into the deadly Delhi's Malviya Nagar hotel fire that killed 21 people has intensified following the arrest of the hotel owner. According to police, the owner claimed he was passing by the site when the fire broke out but fled out of fear. Investigators are now examining how the establishment continued operating despite allegedly lacking mandatory fire clearances and whether safety violations were ignored. The Delhi government has launched a citywide audit of hotels, inns, restaurants, coaching centres and other commercial establishments, with strict action promised against those found violating fire safety norms.