A magistrate-led inquiry by the Goa government into the nightclub fire disaster has unveiled shocking facts. The report reveals that the Barch by Romeo Lane nightclub was clandestinely constructed amidst saline fields and operated illegally without a valid trade license. The investigation specifies that this nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, operated illegally for an extended period.
Despite this, no decisive action was taken by the local panchayat to seal it. The report points toward severe administrative negligence. Citing the police report, the investigation highlights that pyrotechnics were conducted without adequate care and necessary fire safety equipment, leading to a blaze on the night of December 6.
The inferno claimed the lives of 25 people, including tourists and staff at the nightclub. In response, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced the suspension of two officers from the Goa State Pollution Control Board related to the incident. This brings the total number of suspended government officials to five, as three officers had previously been suspended.
Among these officials are former Member Secretary Sharmila Monteiro, Panchayat Director Siddhi Halarnkar, and Secretary of the Arpora-Nagoa Panchayat, Raghuvir Bagkar. The Chief Minister stated that, based on the investigation, other departmental officials would also face inquiries. He mentioned that the Fire and Emergency Services and Excise Department officials are currently under investigation.
The Chief Minister reiterated that no one accountable for illegal activities in the nightclub would be spared. Responding to questions about reopening clubs sealed after the incident, the Chief Minister emphasized adherence to guidelines. Clubs would be inspected and permitted to operate only upon full compliance; otherwise, they face permanent closure.
As of now, Goa Police has arrested eight individuals, including three nightclub owners. The arrest of another owner, Surinder Khosla, is pending. On December 26, Mapusa Court extended the police custody of the Luthra brothers, Saurabh and Gaurav, who fled to Thailand hours after the ghastly event and were deported to India on December 17.
