Four dead in Tughlakabad arson after woman succumbs to burn injuries

The death toll from an arson attack on a residential building in Southeast Delhi’s Tughlakabad rose to four after a 50-year-old woman succumbed to her injuries on Monday evening. The victim, Guddi, died at a hospital after sustaining severe burn injuries during the blaze on the intervening night of June 12 and 13.

According to the Delhi Police, three other members of Guddi's family had already died in the fire. They were identified as her 28-year-old son Pankaj, her 20-year-old daughter Soni, and her 70-year-old mother Sushila. Another family member, Moni, remains in critical condition.

During the investigation, police discovered that the fire was not accidental. Investigators found that a minor girl was allegedly planted to set fire to a scooter parked on the ground floor of the building. The two-wheeler belonged to another family living in the building. The fire quickly spread from the vehicle, engulfing the upper floors of the structure.

The Delhi Police have arrested four suspects in connection with the incident. Among those apprehended is the minor girl, who was spotted on CCTV footage entering and exiting the building around the time of the incident.

Police sources indicated that the motive behind the arson is suspected to be a dispute over money linked to an alleged drug-trafficking operation.

Family members of the deceased expressed shock over the incident, stating they were unaware of any disputes. Relatives shared that Guddi’s late husband, Subhash, had worked as a driver and saved for years to buy a home. Following his death, Pankaj took over the financial responsibilities and purchased the two-room flat in Tughlakabad two years ago to provide for his sisters.

The grieving relatives have demanded strict action against the perpetrators. They alleged that the police have not invoked appropriate charges and are demanding that the accused be prosecuted for murder.