Goa Club Owner Breaks Silence, Says He’s “Deeply Shaken” After Tragic Fire

December 8, 2025

Absconding co-owner of Goa’s Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, Saurabh Luthra, has issued his first public reaction after the devastating fire that killed 25 people in Arpora. In his statement, Luthra said he was “deeply shaken by the tragic loss of precious lives,” calling the incident one of “overwhelming distress and irreparable sorrow.” He extended condolences to the families of the victims and said the pain they were enduring was “beyond words.” Despite this message, Luthra remains untraceable, with police issuing a look-out circular as he has not presented himself for questioning.

How the Midnight Blaze Began

The fire broke out in the early hours of 6 December during a crowded weekend event when the nightclub was hosting a live performance. Eyewitnesses reported seeing sparks near the stage area and hearing a loud blast shortly before flames began spreading. Investigators are examining whether it was caused by a pyrotechnic mishap, a short circuit, or a cylinder-related explosion. According to early assessments, the fire rapidly intensified due to the nightclub’s interior design, which included extensive wooden décor, acoustic panels, and other easily flammable materials.

Why the Fire Turned Deadly

The blaze became catastrophic because the venue was not equipped to handle emergencies of this scale. The club had only two narrow exits, which quickly became congested as panic erupted. Many staff members rushed into the underground kitchen area in a desperate attempt to flee but ended up trapped as dense smoke filled the enclosed space. Most deaths were caused by suffocation, as toxic fumes spread through the building faster than people could escape. The lower level had poor ventilation, turning it into the deadliest zone of the incident.

Victims Mostly Employees and Tourists

Out of the 25 deaths, 20 were employees of the establishment waiters, kitchen staff, cleaners, and bar workers most of them young migrant workers from other states. The remaining five victims were tourists who had come to enjoy Goa’s nightlife. Families of the deceased are devastated and have demanded swift justice, accusing the club management of negligence and lack of safety preparedness.

Police Crack Down, Multiple Arrests Made

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Goa Police arrested at least five senior staff members of the nightclub, including a floor manager, operations in-charge, and other supervisors who were present during the incident. Investigators believe the club was operating without proper fire safety compliance and may have made unauthorised structural modifications. The police have seized CCTV footage and documents, and are tracing the owners’ whereabouts. Luthra’s absence, despite his statement, has intensified public suspicion and criticism.

Owner Promises Assistance But Absence Raises Questions

Luthra, in his statement, said that the management would offer every possible form of assistance, including financial support for families of the deceased and medical care for the injured. He also claimed that the owners were willing to cooperate with the authorities. However, the fact that both owners remain absconding has led to widespread anger, with many questioning the sincerity of his assurances. Legal experts note that cooperation requires physical presence, not merely online statements.

Public Anger Over Negligence and Regulatory Failure

The incident has sparked a wave of outrage across Goa and beyond. Activists and locals have labelled the tragedy a “man-made disaster” resulting from negligence, corruption, and lax enforcement of safety norms. They allege that several nightclubs operate without fire NOCs or safety checks but continue functioning due to weak monitoring and regulatory lapses. Civil societies have demanded not only action against the owners but also against officials who may have allowed the club to operate despite clear violations.

Government Orders Probe and Statewide Safety Audit

The Goa government has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the fire to determine accountability and identify systemic failures. A comprehensive fire safety audit of all restaurants, nightclubs, and entertainment venues across the state is underway. Several establishments have already been served notices for missing safety clearances or faulty fire equipment. The Chief Minister has announced compensation of ₹5 lakh for each victim’s family and assured that accountability will be fixed at all levels involved.

Impact on Goa’s Nightlife and Tourism Industry

The tragedy has cast a shadow over Goa’s vibrant nightlife and tourism sector, especially during the peak holiday season. The fire has triggered anxiety among tourists and businesses alike, forcing several clubs and restaurants to revisit safety protocols. Inspections have intensified across North Goa, and many establishments are now scrambling to update or renew their fire safety compliance documents.