Goa Nightclub Fire: Delhi Court Denies Interim Protection Luthra Brothers

December 10, 2025

New Delhi: In a major blow to absconding Goa nightclub owners Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, a Delhi court on Wednesday refused to grant them interim protection from arrest in the horrific Birch by Romeo Lane fire case that claimed 25 lives.

The brothers had sought transit anticipatory bail from the Rohini court to avoid arrest by the Goa Police, but the prosecution strongly opposed it, leading to the rejection of their plea. The duo, who fled India hours after the blaze, remains untraceable despite a Blue Corner Interpol Notice being issued.

Suspected Escape to Phuket in Five-Hour Operation

Investigators believe the Luthra brothers executed a “well-planned” escape, flying to Phuket, Thailand, on an IndiGo flight around 5:30 a.m. on Sunday, barely hours after the midnight inferno. A Lookout Circular was issued only later that evening—several hours after their departure.

Detentions and Ongoing Crackdown by Goa Police

The police on Tuesday detained Ajay Gupta, one of the co-owners of the nightclub, raising the total number of arrests to six. Those already in custody include Chief General Manager Rajiv Modak, General Manager Vivek Singh, Bar Manager Rajiv Singhania, Gate Manager Riyanshu Thakur, and staffer Bharat Kohli.
Goa Police teams also visited the Luthras’ Delhi residences, pasting notices on their doors.

Fire Tragedy: Narrow Exit Blamed for High Casualties

The devastating fire tore through the club located near the Arpora River backwaters, killing 25 people, including four tourists and 14 staff members. The identities of seven victims are yet to be confirmed, while six injured individuals remain hospitalised.

Police officials noted that the nightclub’s narrow entry and exit points severely restricted escape routes, contributing to the high death toll. The blaze erupted around midnight at the popular Baga-area club, known for drawing large crowds due to its proximity to one of Goa’s most frequented beaches.