A Goa court on Friday extended the police custody of brothers Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, the owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, where 25 people were killed in a devastating fire earlier this month. The extension was granted by the Judicial Magistrate First Class of the Mapusa court, following a request by the investigating agency.
The tragic fire broke out on December 6 at the nightclub located in Arpora village, North Goa, triggering widespread outrage and raising serious questions about fire safety norms, crowd management, and regulatory oversight in nightlife establishments.
Custody Extended After Initial Remand Ends
The Luthra brothers were produced before the court after the expiry of their initial 10-day police remand. Their advocate informed the court that the accused did not oppose the extension of custody and expressed willingness to cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
According to police officials, the brothers are currently lodged in Anjuna police custody and are being questioned regarding operational management, safety clearances, and compliance with fire safety regulations.
Flight Abroad After Tragedy Raises Concerns
Investigators revealed that the Luthra brothers had reportedly fled to Thailand within hours of the incident. Following coordination with international authorities, they were deported back to India on December 17, after which they were taken into police custody.
Police sources clarified that the brothers were not present at the nightclub at the time of the fire, though responsibility is being examined in terms of ownership, licensing, and compliance failures.
Serious Charges and Ongoing Investigation
The Anjuna police have registered a case against the brothers under sections related to culpable homicide not amounting to murder, along with other applicable offences. Authorities have stated that the probe is focusing on structural safety, emergency exits, electrical installations, and adherence to statutory permissions.
So far, eight persons have been arrested in connection with the case, including managerial and operational staff associated with the establishment.
International Angle to the Probe
Police have also initiated the process for issuing a Blue Corner Notice against British national Surinder Kumar Khosla, an accused who is believed to have fled to the United Kingdom. The move signals an expanding international dimension to the investigation.
Officials have reiterated that all responsible parties will be identified and proceeded against in accordance with law.
Focus on Accountability and Public Safety
The tragedy has reignited discussions around enforcement of safety norms in entertainment venues across Goa. Authorities have indicated that inspections and audits of similar establishments are being undertaken to prevent recurrence of such incidents.
As investigations continue, the case remains a critical test of regulatory accountability, institutional oversight, and the justice delivery system in addressing large-scale public safety failures.