The nightclub fire incident in Panaji, Goa, has left the entire nation in distress. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant disclosed that the initial cause of the fire at Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub is believed to be electric fireworks. Following the tragic death of 25 individuals, the police have arrested four staff members of the club.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated that the club's Chief General Manager, Rajeev Modak, General Manager Vivek Singh, Bar Manager Rajeev Singhania, and Gate Manager Riyanshu Thakur have been taken into police custody. They are charged with negligence and violations of regulations. An FIR has been filed against the club owners, Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra.
The arrest of the club owners is imminent. The Chief Minister has instructed Director General of Police Alok Kumar that no laxity should be tolerated at any level in this matter. He further mentioned that any government officials who allowed the club to operate despite regulatory violations would face suspension immediately the same day.
Special Committee Formed for Fire Incident Investigation
The Chief Secretary of the state, Dr. V. Candavelu, and the DGP have been directed to identify and immediately act against culpable officials. To delve into this catastrophic incident, the state government has established a special committee, including the South Goa Collector, Deputy Director of Fire and Emergency Services, and the Director of the Forensic Laboratory.
Strict Advisory to be Issued for Nightclubs
This committee will present its findings within a week. The Chief Minister assured that the government will strive to prevent such occurrences in the future. A strict advisory will be issued for all nightclubs and crowded venues related to the hospitality sector, mandating stringent security measures. An audit will also be carried out on clubs operating without permission.
Compensation for Next of Kin
The CM announced compensation, stating that each deceased's closest relative will receive 500,000 INR, and injured parties will receive 50,000 INR from the State Disaster Management Authority Fund. The government will fully arrange for the transport of deceased bodies to their homes. The incident occurred around 11:45 PM on Saturday, claiming lives via suffocation.
