During the hearing at Rohini Court on the anticipatory bail plea for Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra regarding the Goa club fire incident, the prosecution opposed the plea. Senior Advocate Siddharth Luthra, representing the Luthra brothers, stated, 'I'm seeking permission to return to this country and knock on the doors of justice in Goa.'
He added, 'Tragically, those who succumbed in the fire incident were victims of smoke inhalation. This incident concerns and affects me deeply.' The prosecution's lawyer stated that they received the application at 10 AM, suggesting the case be postponed to Friday, arguing it's not yet ready for hearing.
'Luthra Brothers Were Not Present at the Incident'
Another lawyer for the Luthra brothers, Tanveer Ahmed Mir, advocated for anticipatory bail, arguing that criminal liability could not be imposed on them as they were not present at the time of the incident. He pointed out that the associated firm operates under partners and managers, with the Luthra brothers being involved with numerous business entities but not overseeing daily operations.
'Franchise Managers Oversee Operations'
He stated that franchise managers handle operations, including Romeo Lane, where the fire incident occurred. He argued, 'Should an incident occur in Bhubaneswar, Goa, or elsewhere, criminal liability cannot be directly placed upon them. Responsibility lies with those at the operational level—partners or managers.'
He emphasized the Luthra brothers' absence during the event and noted that their operational managers were already in custody. Advocate Siddharth Luthra appeared via video conferencing, while Delhi Police DCP Crime Sanjeev Yadav supported the Goa police in court.
'Fireworks and Sparklers Caused the Blaze'
The judge inquired about their clients' whereabouts, to which the Luthras' lawyer replied that they were in Thailand. The case will continue today. In court, the lawyer stated that fireworks and sparklers were ignited at the club. The Luthra brothers did not claim responsibility for the incident. The lawyer explained their Thailand visit was for business, but arrest fears prevent their return.
Luthra Brothers Seek Court Protection
The defense argued that the Luthra brothers were not involved in daily operations, which were managed by operational managers. In court, the lawyer stated that operational managers, now in custody, were responsible at the time. Seeking protection, they claimed, 'I am a permanent resident of this court's jurisdiction, merely seeking security.' The lawyer requested anticipatory bail for the Luthra brothers.
Defense Cites Health Concerns
It was claimed that 'cold pyro' used by a female performer during the show caused the blaze. The lawyer vouched for the validity of licenses, including FSSAI, Goa state license, liquor, and GST. Highlighting a lookout circular, the fear of immediate arrest upon return to India was noted, and a four-week anticipatory bail was requested.
The defense also presented health concerns, pointing out Saurabh Luthra's conditions like epilepsy and high blood pressure. The Delhi Police opposed the bail, requesting time to submit their response. The Rohini Court is set to review the anticipatory bail plea again at 12 PM today.
