The Delhi High Court has ordered a comprehensive health report from RML Hospital regarding hotel owner Lovkesh Bajaj, accused in the tragic fire that killed 23 people. The order follows Bajaj's plea for interim bail citing serious intestinal complications.
- Delhi High Court seeks a detailed health report on Lovkesh Bajaj from RML Hospital.
- Bajaj is an accused in the June 3 fire that claimed 23 lives at Flourish Stay B&B.
- The court has scheduled a hearing for the next day after receiving the report.
Case Overview
On June 3, a fire engulfed the five‑storey ‘Flourish Stay’ bed‑and‑breakfast in Hauz Rani, resulting in 23 deaths and 24 serious injuries. Co‑owner Lovkesh Bajaj has been named as an accused in the investigation.
Interim Bail Plea and Court Order
Bajaj applied for interim bail, claiming severe intestinal obstruction and a serious health condition. Justice Manoj Jain heard the plea and directed that a comprehensive health report be obtained from the Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) Hospital, listing the matter for a hearing the following day.
Previous Judicial Findings
On September 3, a trial court rejected Bajaj’s four‑week bail request on medical grounds, stating that he was already receiving specialised treatment in custody and had undergone surgery at RML Hospital.
Key Investigation Findings
Delhi Police have charge‑sheeted Bajaj, manager‑accountant Jay Mishra, and cook Keshav Negi, alleging that the 26‑room establishment violated bed‑and‑breakfast regulations that permit only six rooms. The hotel licence application was denied due to a single entry‑exit point and lack of a fire exit.
Cause of the Fire
According to investigators, the fire originated in the kitchen when Negi left an oil fryer switched on while preparing tea. The single entry‑exit route and presence of flammable material accelerated the blaze.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that the legal scrutiny of hotel safety compliance in Delhi highlights systemic gaps in enforcement, raising concerns about public safety standards in rapidly expanding urban hospitality sectors.
"Robust regulatory oversight is essential to prevent such large‑scale hotel disasters," said safety expert Dr. Anita Sharma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: When can Lovkesh Bajaj expect bail?
Answer: The court has scheduled a hearing after the health report is submitted; a final decision is pending.
Question 2: Why was the hotel denied a B&B licence?
Answer: The licence was rejected because the property had only one entry‑exit point and lacked a proper fire escape.
