Thu Jan 01 02:10:31 UTC 2026: Summary:
A government inquiry has revealed that the Goa nightclub “Birch by Romeo Lane,” where a deadly fire claimed 25 lives in December 2025, was operating illegally on a salt pan without a valid trade license. The report indicates collusion and negligence from multiple officials, including the local panchayat, who failed to take action despite knowing the club was operating unlawfully. The inquiry also highlighted forged documents, procedural violations in obtaining the initial license, disregarded noise complaints, and inadequate fire safety measures. Several individuals have been arrested, including the nightclub owners, and government officials have been suspended.
News Article:
Goa Nightclub Fire: Inquiry Reveals Illegal Construction, Official Collusion
Panaji, India – January 1, 2026 – A government inquiry has revealed a web of illegal activity and official negligence surrounding the “Birch by Romeo Lane” nightclub in Arpora, Goa, where a devastating fire killed 25 people in early December 2025. The report, made public on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, confirms the nightclub was built illegally on a salt pan and operated without a valid trade license.
The inquiry pointed to a serious lapse in oversight, accusing the local panchayat of failing to seal the property despite knowledge of its expired license. The report alleges collusion between officials and the nightclub owners, stating that the panchayat intentionally ignored the illegal operation.
The investigation further uncovered forged documents and procedural violations in the application for the nightclub’s initial license in 2023. Complaints regarding noise pollution and parking violations were also repeatedly dismissed. A police report cited in the inquiry stated that the use of fireworks without proper safety precautions triggered the deadly blaze.
Police have arrested eight individuals in connection with the fire, including nightclub co-owners Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, who fled to Thailand after the tragedy and were subsequently deported. Five Goa government officials have also been suspended. The case is being investigated under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including culpable homicide and forgery. The inquiry has prompted calls for stricter enforcement of regulations and greater accountability from local authorities to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
First Piper 