Delhi is grappling with yet another deadly fire tragedy, with past incidents revealing a familiar pattern: inquiries are announced, officials promise accountability, but little appears to change on the ground.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has sought a detailed report from the South Delhi district magistrate into the Hauz Rani B&B fire that killed at least 21 people, warning of stern action against those found responsible.
However, this announcement echoes responses that have followed several major disasters in the Capital over the years, with many inquiries yet to be made public.
Delhi's recent history is littered with similar disasters, many of which exposed glaring safety violations, blocked exits, and weak enforcement.
The deadliest remains the June 13, 1997, Uphaar Cinema fire in Green Park, which killed 59 people and injured more than 100 during a screening of the film Border.
Despite that watershed moment, deadly fires continued, including the May 25, 2024, fire that ripped through a neonatal hospital in Vivek Vihar, killing seven newborn babies.
The city's recent history is marked by a lack of accountability, with officials promising action but failing to deliver.
