Delhi Hotel Fire: Tragic Loss of IVF Couple Among 21 Dead

A devastating fire at the Flourish Stay Hotel in Malviya Nagar, Delhi, on June 3 resulted in the loss of 21 lives, including an African couple undergoing IVF treatment at a nearby hospital. Rescue teams discovered their bodies in the bathroom, where they were found holding each other tightly. The woman was seated on the toilet seat, with her head resting on her husband's shoulder, who was seated on a nearby chair. Both reportedly died due to suffocation.

Among the deceased was a 61-year-old Liberian woman, identified as Jenje N. Rowland, whose body was recognized by a relative at AIIMS mortuary. Her husband, who was unwell, is currently hospitalized at Max Hospital. The fire also injured 28 people, with victims including 11 foreigners and 10 Indian nationals. Nine of the foreign victims were citizens of African countries.

Authorities have detained the hotel owner, Lovkesh Bajaj, who is in police custody for four days. Investigations revealed that the hotel operated with significant safety violations, including the absence of a fire NOC and operating 25 rooms despite having a license for only six. Bajaj reportedly fled the scene during the fire and made no attempt to assist those trapped.

The fire originated on the ground floor of the five-story building, blocking the only staircase and trapping occupants. Chief Fire Officer A.K. Malik stated that sealed windows and rapid smoke spread further hindered evacuation efforts. Officials are probing the incident and examining the hotel's compliance with safety regulations.