CCI’s 1st Chairman Dhanendra Kumar Dies in Fire at South Delhi Home; AC Blast Suspected

Kumar (80), a 1968-batch IAS officer of Haryana cadre, also represented India as Executive Director at the World Bank. According to Delhi Fire Services officials, a call regarding a house fire in Hauz Khas Enclave was received at 11.24 pm on Wednesday, following which two fire trucks, including a water tanker, rushed to the spot.

Authorities said that the fire, which was taken under control at around 12.20, engulfed the household goods on the ground floor and the wooden windows on the first floor of the ground plus two-storey building.

Before fire personnel reached the scene, the two injured were transported to AIIMS Trauma Center by PCR personnel and public.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (South) Anant Mittal said Kumar suffered smoke inhalation during treatment.

Police said Kumar’s son was injured in the fire and is under treatment. It was stated that his condition was out of danger.

Authorities suggested in the initial investigation that the fire may have been caused by an explosion in the indoor unit of the air conditioner installed inside the house.

There were 5 people in the house at the time of the incident, including family members and servants.

While crime teams are investigating the scene, electrical investigation is continuing to determine the exact cause of the fire. Police said eyewitness statements were recorded and so far they do not suspect any foul play.

Kumar held many important administrative positions throughout his career, including Chairman and Managing Director of the Haryana State Industrial Development Corporation (HSIDC) and Chief Secretary to the chief minister of Haryana.

Apart from his administrative career, Kumar was also known as an author and public policy expert.

A detailed investigation into the matter is ongoing.