New Delhi
oi-Ashish Rana
A significant development has emerged in the investigation into the devastating fire at a B&B in Delhi’s Malviya Nagar that claimed 21 lives. Arrested cook Keshav Negi has reportedly told investigators that the blaze started after an electric stove exploded inside the property’s kitchen.
The revelation has added a new dimension to the probe, with authorities now closely examining the sequence of events that unfolded in the moments after the fire broke out.
Cook Describes Events Leading Up To Fire
During questioning, Negi allegedly informed investigators that an electric stove exploded in the kitchen, sparking the fire. According to his statement, panic set in as the flames began to spread rapidly through the premises.
He reportedly told investigators, “Electric stove exploded, then I cut off power.” After switching off the electricity supply, he is said to have fled the building.
Power Shutdown Under Investigation
Police suspect that Negi’s decision to disconnect the B&B’s main power supply may have had serious consequences. Investigators believe the action could have disabled the building’s electronic door locking system at a critical moment.
As smoke and flames engulfed parts of the property, several guests may have been unable to escape because the electronic locking mechanism stopped functioning after the power was cut, according to investigators’ preliminary assessment.
Questions Over Safety And Negligence
The latest disclosure has intensified scrutiny of safety measures at the establishment. Investigators are examining whether negligence played a role in the tragedy and if proper emergency protocols were in place.
Officials are also working to determine whether the alleged stove explosion was the primary cause of the fire and how the situation escalated into one of the deadliest incidents in the area in recent years.
Probe Continues Into Fatal Incident
Authorities continue to gather evidence and question those connected to the property as they seek to establish the exact chain of events that led to the deaths of 21 people.
The investigation remains ongoing, with police expected to further examine the circumstances surrounding the power shutdown, the building’s safety systems, and potential lapses that may have contributed to the loss of life.
