A tragic fire at a hotel in Delhi's Malviya Nagar area has claimed 21 lives, including foreign nationals, leaving the city shocked and grieving. The incident, which occurred on the morning of June 3, 2026, also left several people injured, with authorities warning that the death toll could rise as some victims remain in critical condition.

According to officials, 47 people were rescued from the building and rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Among those who lost their lives were nine citizens from African countries and two from Turkmenistan, while five foreign nationals were among the injured.

Investigations have revealed serious violations at the property. Officials stated that the hotel was operating without clearance from the Fire Department. The building reportedly had approval for only six rooms but was functioning with more than 20 rooms. Authorities also found that the property had only a single entry and exit point, raising major concerns about safety compliance.

Police have apprehended the building owner, Lovkesh Bajaj, and registered a First Information Report (FIR) against him under Sections 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) and 326 (mischief by fire) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Preliminary findings suggest that sealed glass windows, malfunctioning sensor-operated gates, overcrowded rooms, and multiple fire safety violations turned the building into a death trap as smoke and flames spread rapidly through the premises.

In response to the tragedy, the Delhi government has announced a major review of accommodation establishments operating in the city. Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra said the government will officially withdraw its Bed and Breakfast policy and conduct inspections of all establishments registered under the scheme.

"We are going to officially withdraw the Bed and Breakfast scheme, and all establishments licensed under it will be checked," Mishra told PTI.

He further stated that strict action would be taken against operators violating licence conditions. Establishments found operating more than six rooms under the scheme will face licence cancellation.

The incident has also prompted immediate action from Delhi's administration. Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu has ordered a month-long fire safety inspection drive covering hotels, lodges, inns, nursing homes, coaching institutes, restaurants, and other vulnerable commercial establishments across the city.

Officials said all rooms operating beyond approved limits in hotels, lodges, and inns will be shut down as part of the enforcement drive.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta assured that the government is closely monitoring the situation and extending all necessary medical assistance and support to affected families.

President Droupadi Murmu expressed her condolences, saying, "The news of the loss of lives in the fire incident in Malviya Nagar, Delhi is extremely heartbreaking. I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the swift recovery of those injured."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his condolences, stating, "The loss of lives due to a fire incident in Malviya Nagar, Delhi is tragic. My condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. Wishing a speedy recovery to the injured. Authorities are providing all possible assistance to those affected."

The devastating incident has not only left Delhi heartbroken but has also brought renewed attention to the importance of safety and security standards across hotels, guest houses, and other accommodation facilities. As investigations continue, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the need for strict compliance with fire safety regulations to prevent such incidents in the future.