A devastating fire at a facility in Malviya Nagar has ignited a political dispute over the property's licensing. Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Satish Upadhyay alleged that the establishment received its permit during the tenure of the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government and that regulatory failures allowed safety norms to be breached.
Political Blame Over Licensing
The controversy emerged as documents related to the property's registration came to light amid the ongoing investigation into the blaze, which claimed multiple lives. A social media order, purportedly issued by the Department of Tourism of the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi on July 23, 2024, shows that a bed and breakfast establishment at H.No. 264-B, Hauz Rani, Malviya Nagar, was granted registration under the Bed and Breakfast Scheme in the silver category. The registration was awarded to applicant Ray Dileep and permitted the operation of six rooms.
The order indicates that the Classification Committee inspected the premises and recommended registration for six rooms: three on the first floor and three on the second floor. It also notes that the applicant resided at the property with family and that the establishment was required to adhere to the conditions outlined in the scheme.
Alleged Norm Violations
Upadhyay stated that the licence was issued in 2024 when the AAP government was in power. He said, "The Delhi government had already granted these B&B licences in 2024 during the AAP government's tenure. The duration of these licences was for three years. As per the norms, there should have been six rooms. But under the cover of that licence, they allegedly expanded rooms and made other additions. Somewhere there was a lapse in checking whether the norms were being followed."
The BJP leader added that Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has taken cognisance of the matter and directed action against those found responsible. The fire, which occurred in Malviya Nagar, resulted in 21 deaths and has raised serious questions about fire safety compliance and regulatory oversight in the city.
Background of the Incident
The tragic fire broke out in a restaurant at Malviya Nagar, leading to a massive rescue operation by Delhi Police and fire services. The incident has prompted calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and accountability for lapses. The political blame game continues as both parties trade accusations over the licensing process and supervision of commercial establishments.
