"13 foreign nationals died in Malviya Nagar fire": MEA
New Delhi, June 5
The Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday that 13 foreign nationals have died in the fire incident in Malviya Nagar.
Addressing the weekly media briefing, Official Spokesperson of the MEA, Randhir Jaiswal said that India is in regular contact with their respective embassies to provide necessary medical assistance, facilitate paperwork, and offer any other support required.
"Regarding the Malviya Nagar fire, current information indicates that 13 foreign nationals have died. This includes one person from Mozambique, four from Nigeria, one from Liberia, three from Kyrgyzstan, one from Uzbekistan, one from Bangladesh, one from Congo, and one from Iraq. We express our deepest condolences to their families. We are in regular contact with their respective embassies to provide necessary medical assistance, facilitate paperwork, and offer any other support required. Approximately 20 to 22 foreign nationals were also injured in the incident," he said.
The deadly fire at a bed-and-breakfast establishment in Malviya Nagar in the national capital on Wednesday, claimed 21 lives.
The Saket Court remanded hotel co-owner Lavkesh Bajaj to four days of police custody.
Bajaj, arrested a day after the incident, has been booked under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including culpable homicide not amounting to murder, mischief by fire, negligence endangering life, and related provisions.
On Thursday, a Delhi court granted police four days' custody of the accused for further investigation.
Investigators are also examining the ownership structure of the property, with sources indicating that Bajaj operates multiple hospitality units and is the sole owner of the building where the fire broke out.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Absolutely devastating news. When I read that 13 foreign nationals from so many different countries died here, it really hits home how globalization means tragedy can touch anyone, anywhere. India needs to take a hard look at building regulations in dense neighborhoods like Malviya Nagar. Praying for all the injured too.
This is heartbreaking. Those poor families losing loved ones in a foreign land. The police custody of the owner is a must, but we also need systemic changes. No more shortcuts in safety audits. That building must have had multiple violations. Sad that lives had to be lost for action to be taken. 🙏
Truly sad. As someone who travels frequently, fires in poorly regulated accommodations is a fear many of us have. The owner being charged with culpable homicide is appropriate. Hope India's legal system delivers justice swiftly. Condolences to all affected nations.
This is terrible. I live near Malviya Nagar and it's a busy area with many such guesthouses. The lack of fire exits and basic safety is shocking. The government should inspect every single such property immediately. The loss of 21 lives – including so many international guests – is a huge embarrassment for Delhi. Action is long overdue.
So many countries affected, including Bangladesh and African nations. India should offer visas for the families to come and claim bodies or attend funerals, if they wish. And compensation should be provided. It's the least we can do in such a horrific tragedy. Respects to all who passed away. 😢
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