Many security lapses at Mahipalpur hotels

New Delhi: A security audit conducted by Delhi Police at 210 hotels in Mahipalpur has revealed several lapses, including negligence in fire safety and overall security protocols.
The hotels in Mahipalpur have frequently been in the news for the wrong reasons, particularly due to multiple cases of immoral trafficking. Just last month, a British woman alleged sexual assault at a hotel in the area. A man she had befriended through social media was arrested along with a hotel employee.
DCP (southwest) Surendra Choudhary has formed a team for the audit, which was carried out through physical inspections, an assessment of security infrastructure, and a review of documentation.
Several violations and instances of non-compliance were identified, including failure to maintain guest entry registers, lack of CCTV surveillance or non-functional systems, absence of guards on the premises, unavailability of or expired fire extinguishers, unmarked or blocked emergency exits, and hotels operating without valid licences," police said.
Based on the audit findings, several legal actions were initiated between Oct 1, 2024 and April 13, 2025. As many as 25 cases were registered under Section 223A (disobedience to an order duly promulgated by a public servant) and five cases under Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act. While five hotels were shut down, 48 kalandras (legal proceedings) were prepared under Delhi Police Act.
Police said Mahipalpur, a prominent locality with a booming hotel industry due to its proximity to the country's busiest international airport, IGI Airport, caters to a diverse mix of travellers. Given the large volume of tourists and business visitors, there is a pressing need to enforce strict safety protocols and legal compliance.
"Throughout the audit process, local police maintained regular communication with Mahipalpur Hotel Association. Awareness meetings were held to educate hotel operators on the importance of adhering to legal and safety norms," police said.
The audit has led to enhanced security measures. In follow-up inspections, around 40 hotels have deployed guards at entry and exit points, as well as in parking areas, to ensure proper screening to deter unlawful activities. Nearly 100 hotels have installed new CCTV systems covering key areas such as entrances, lobbies, corridors and parking lots. Approximately 35 hotels have installed or refilled fire extinguishers, ensuring they are accessible and functional.
Close to 30 hotels have installed door frame metal detectors at their main entrance to facilitate proper screening and frisking while around 50 hotels have procured hand-held metal detectors to strengthen security checks at entry points. The police verification of 250 employees was also carried out.