The investigation into the devastating fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, which claimed 25 lives on December 6, has entered a critical phase with multiple stakeholders being examined and legal scrutiny intensifying. The incident, one of the deadliest nightclub fires in recent years, has raised serious concerns regarding fire safety compliance, property ownership disputes, and regulatory oversight.
As authorities work to establish accountability, developments over the past week indicate a widening scope of inquiry involving property ownership, operational legality, and administrative lapses.
Property Owner Appears Before Anjuna Police
On December 29, 2025, Pradeep Ghadi Amonkar appeared before Anjuna police in connection with the case. Amonkar stated that he has been the owner of the property since 1994 and contested the legitimacy of the nightclub’s operations on the premises.
According to Amonkar, a sale agreement executed in 2004 with businessman Surinder Kumar Khosla was cancelled due to alleged non-payment. He further claimed that the property was subsequently occupied using forged documentation, without his consent or legal transfer of ownership.
Allegations of Prior Warnings to Authorities
Amonkar also informed investigators that he had repeatedly alerted authorities over the years regarding alleged illegalities associated with the nightclub. He claimed that these warnings pertained to unauthorised occupation, safety concerns, and operational irregularities.
These statements are now being examined as part of the broader investigation to determine whether regulatory lapses or administrative inaction contributed to the tragic incident.
Custody of Accused Extended by Court
In a parallel legal development, the Mapusa Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) Court on Monday extended the police custody of accused Ajay Gupta by five days. Gupta is being questioned in connection with the management and operational aspects of the nightclub.
The extension indicates that investigators require additional time to examine financial records, safety approvals, licensing documentation, and communication trails linked to the establishment.
Focus on Fire Safety and Regulatory Compliance
Authorities have stated that the investigation will closely scrutinise compliance with fire safety norms, including emergency exits, occupancy limits, electrical installations, and fire prevention measures. The case has drawn attention to the enforcement of safety regulations in commercial entertainment establishments, particularly in high-footfall tourist zones.
Experts have pointed out that accountability in such cases extends beyond operators to include oversight mechanisms and approval processes.
Public Safety and Accountability at the Forefront
The scale of casualties has prompted widespread public concern and renewed calls for stricter enforcement of safety norms. Civil society groups and legal experts have stressed the need for transparent investigations and institutional accountability to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Officials have reiterated that the probe will be conducted thoroughly and without prejudice, ensuring that responsibility is fixed based on evidence and due process.
