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The cook arrested in connection with the deadly fire at a guest house in Delhi's Malviya Nagar, which claimed 21 lives, including 13 foreign nationals, has told investigators that the blaze erupted after an electric stove exploded in the kitchen, according to police sources.

 

Delhi Police arrested Keshav Negi on Saturday after questioning him for nearly six hours. Investigators have alleged that negligence on his part triggered the fire that swept through the Flourish Stay B&B on Wednesday.

 

During interrogation, Negi reportedly told police that he had switched on an electric stove in the kitchen shortly before the incident. According to his account, the appliance exploded, causing flames to spread rapidly through the building.

 

Police sources said Negi admitted that panic gripped him as smoke and fire engulfed the premises. Investigators claim that amid the chaos, he switched off the establishment's main power supply before fleeing the scene.

Also read: Malviya Nagar fire: Arrested hotel cook brought to incident site

 

The decision to cut power has emerged as a key focus of the investigation. Police suspect that shutting off electricity may have disabled the building's electronic door-locking system, potentially trapping guests inside as the fire spread.

 

Investigators are examining whether the failure of the electronic locks blocked escape routes and hindered rescue efforts. Officials believe the shutdown of the locking system may have contributed to the high casualty count, though the exact sequence of events is still being verified.

 

The fire, one of the deadliest in the national capital in recent years, killed 21 people and left several others injured. Authorities have launched a comprehensive probe into the incident, including the functioning of safety systems and compliance with fire regulations at the property.

 

The tragedy has also brought the guest house's operations under scrutiny. Investigators are examining whether the establishment adhered to licensing conditions and mandatory fire-safety norms.

 

Police said the investigation remains ongoing and that all aspects of the incident, including possible lapses by those responsible for operating the property, are being examined.