Lawyer Writes To Delhi High Court Chief Justice Seeking Suo-Motu Cognizance Of Malviya Nagar Fire Tragedy
An advocate has addressed an open letter to the Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court seeking suo-motu cognizance of the recent Malviya Nagar fire tragedy in the national capital and judicial oversight of the investigation into the incident.
In the letter, Advocate Bhavishya Shakya has urged the High Court to ensure a fair, independent and time-bound probe into the circumstances leading to the fire, which claimed multiple lives.
The letter contends that the tragedy raises serious concerns regarding enforcement of public safety laws, regulatory oversight and compliance with fire safety norms in Delhi.
Last week, a blaze ripped through the Flourish Stay B&B in the congested Hauz Rani area in the city, killing 21 people.
The hotel owner was remanded to police custody for 4 days by a Delhi court which was later extended to 2 days. The cook of the hotel has been denied bail by a Delhi court and is presently in judicial custody.
In his letter, Shakya has submitted that the incident warrants scrutiny not only of possible violations by private individuals but also of the role of regulatory authorities responsible for ensuring compliance with safety standards.
Drawing parallels with the Uphaar Cinema tragedy, the letter states that large-scale loss of life often results from systemic regulatory failures and institutional lapses in addition to private negligence.
“The lives lost in this tragedy cannot be restored. However, justice requires that the truth be uncovered, responsibility be fixed wherever warranted, and meaningful reforms be undertaken to prevent recurrence. The affected families deserve answers, the citizens of Delhi deserve accountability, and the rule of law demands that public safety obligations be enforced with seriousness and integrity,” the letter states.
The advocate has also sought examination of the role of online accommodation booking platforms, including those listing hotels, guest houses and similar establishments.
Among other reliefs, the letter requests the High Court to direct an independent investigation, examine the responsibility of concerned authorities, order disclosure of inspection and compliance records relating to the premises.
It also seeks registration of criminal proceedings wherever warranted, and a city-wide audit of commercial lodging establishments.
The Delhi Police has registered an first information report (FIR) against the hotel owner under Sections 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) and 326 (mischief by fire) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
At least 58 people were rescued and taken to hospitals, where 21 were declared dead.
As per officials, the hotel was operating without a fire NOC in a congested bylane, killing at least 21 people, some of which were African nationals, and some from Turkmenistan.
Reportedly, the building in question had approval for only six rooms but was operating more than 20 and had a single entry-exit point.