Delhi to crack down on fire safety violations after blaze that killed 21

The Delhi government is initiating a stringent crackdown on properties flouting fire safety regulations after a devastating fire claimed 21 lives, including 12 foreign nationals, in the capital city. The blaze, the most lethal in Delhi since 2022, erupted at a hotel in Malviya Nagar, reportedly frequented by individuals seeking treatment at a nearby hospital and their families.

In response to the tragedy, authorities have lodged a criminal case and arrested the building's owner. The chief minister's office announced a city-wide campaign targeting guest houses and other establishments operating in violation of fire safety norms and building by-laws. Non-compliant premises face sealing, and responsible parties will be prosecuted, according to the office's statement on X.

Media reports identified the foreign nationals killed in the incident as hailing from Bangladesh, Nigeria, Mozambique, and Liberia. India's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar confirmed that the foreign ministry is liaising with the concerned embassies to provide necessary assistance. Reuters could not independently verify the nationalities of the victims.