Goa nightclub fire: Owners’ bail rejected, deportation steps begin

The investigation into the deadly fire at Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, took a major turn on Thursday. A Delhi court rejected the bail requests of co-owners Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra , calling the case very serious. The brothers are detained in Thailand , having left India shortly after the fire that killed 25 people on the night of December 6 .

The fire broke out around 11:45 pm during a busy late-night event. It is believed to have started near the kitchen and spread quickly due to flammable décor and poor planning, trapping many people inside. Investigators are looking into whether the club had proper fire safety approvals, structural permissions, and safety equipment, as major lapses are suspected.

The court also dismissed the Luthras’ claim that they were on a business trip and feared “being lynched in Goa,” saying the loss of 25 lives needed strict scrutiny. Their passports have been seized , and authorities are working with Thai officials to bring them back to India. Once deported, the brothers will be taken into custody and questioned about their role in the tragedy.

On the ground in Goa, the investigation is moving forward. Arpora-Nagoa sarpanch Roshan Redkar appeared before Anjuna police after getting interim protection from arrest , and said he is fully cooperating. Former panchayat secretary Raghuvir Bagkar , whose anticipatory bail hearing is scheduled for Friday, is under scrutiny because investigators are examining whether he failed to ensure the nightclub had proper approvals and safety clearances, which could have contributed to the tragedy.

Meanwhile, Ajay Gupta , a silent partner in the club, has been remanded to seven days’ police custody , and five managers and staff members have also been arrested.

The tragedy has raised serious concerns about fire safety in Goa’s nightclubs . Authorities are reviewing safety measures across entertainment venues to prevent similar accidents in the future.