Speaking to ANI about the incident in his Malviya Nagar assembly constituency, Upadhyay said, "My understanding is that the Delhi government had already issued licences for these Bed and Breakfast (B&B) establishments back in 2024. These licences were granted during the tenure of the Aam Aadmi Party government, and they were valid for a duration of three years… This B&B was permitted to have a maximum of six rooms. However, under that very pretext, they extended their rooms or constructed kitchens; consequently, there was undoubtedly a lapse somewhere in the enforcement of the established norms…"

He described the tragedy as a "wake-up call" and assured that strict action would be taken against those responsible. "The Chief Minister has taken cognisance of this matter, and the hotel owners who misused this B&B scheme have been charged under the strictest possible legal sections… Furthermore, to ensure that such incidents do not recur, as this serves as a wake-up call, the Chief Minister issued strict orders today to prevent any form of non-compliance. The government will not tolerate any violation of norms whatsoever; the strictest action will be taken against all such buildings, as well as against any officials found to have been negligent…"

Meanwhile, the accused and owner of the hotel, Lovkesh Bajaj, who was arrested following the deadly fire on Tuesday, told Delhi Police during interrogation that he did not have time to personally manage or oversee the premises, according to sources.

Among the 21 fatalities, 12 were Indian nationals. Sources added that Bajaj claimed to have delegated day-to-day operations, including billing, accounts and overall management, to "another person." He reportedly stated that structural changes, such as increasing room size and modifications, were suggested by this individual, who assured him these "were routine" and "everything works in Delhi."

Bajaj also admitted during questioning that the premises did not possess a Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC). Authorities are currently verifying records from the electricity department and other agencies concerning approvals, permissions and compliance related to the premises, including structural alterations.

Delhi Police are examining ownership and control of multiple properties linked to Bajaj as part of the broader investigation.

The accused is expected to appear before a court on Thursday, with police seeking custody remand for further interrogation to verify his statements and establish the involvement of others, sources said.