BJP MLA praises 5 Muslim men for heroic efforts at Delhi fire
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Maktoob Media photo.
New Delhi: As a devastating fire swept through a hotel in South Delhi’s Malviya Nagar on Wednesday, killing 21 people and injuring dozens, local residents played a crucial role in rescuing those trapped inside. Among them were five Muslim men whose efforts drew widespread praise on social media and recognition from local BJP MLA Satish Upadhyay.
The five men—Afzal, Mohammad Shah Rukh, Mohammad Aneesh, Mohammad Aamir and Mohammad Waseem—joined police personnel in repeatedly entering the burning building to evacuate occupants despite the danger posed by thick smoke and intense flames.
Rescue efforts extended beyond emergency responders as neighbours, traders and workers rushed to help. Riyazuddin, a mattress shop owner opposite the hotel, spread mattresses across the narrow lane below the building to cushion people attempting to escape through windows. Reports indicate he sacrificed merchandise worth around ₹2 lakh while helping save multiple lives.
Videos from the scene showed desperate guests jumping from upper floors as the fire rapidly engulfed the structure. Locals feared many occupants, including visitors staying in budget lodges near hospitals in Saket, would be unfamiliar with the area and unable to find safe exits.
Other volunteers also joined the operation. Security officer Wasim Raza assisted survivors and provided emergency medical aid, while several residents helped carry injured victims and recover bodies after the flames were brought under control.
According to officials, at least 47 people were rescued and shifted to hospitals, but 21 people, including foreign nationals, died in the blaze. Preliminary investigations revealed serious safety violations. Authorities said the hotel lacked mandatory fire clearance, was allegedly operating far more rooms than permitted, and had only a single entry and exit point.
Police have arrested the building owner and registered a case under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. As investigations continue, public attention has largely focused on the civilians who risked their lives to save strangers during the tragedy.
