New Delhi, June 3 -- At least 21 people were killed and several others injured after a devastating fire swept through a hotel building in South Delhi's Malviya Nagar area on Wednesday, making it one of the deadliest fire incidents reported in the national capital in recent years.

The blaze reportedly originated in a restaurant operating on the lower floors of the building before rapidly spreading through the structure, trapping dozens of occupants inside. Television footage and eyewitness accounts showed thick smoke engulfing the building as desperate occupants attempted to escape through windows and balconies. Some people were seen jumping from upper floors in a bid to save their lives.

Fire and rescue teams rushed to the scene after r...