Panaji: In a significant development in the high-profile Goa nightclub fire case, a sessions court in Mapusa, North Goa, has rejected the bail applications of Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra. The two are owners of Birch by Romeo Lane, the nightclub where a devastating fire on December 6, 2025, claimed 25 lives and left nearly 50 people injured.
The court’s decision is being seen as a crucial moment for the families of the victims, while the defence is preparing to approach a higher court for relief.
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The tragic incident occurred during a crowded dance party at the Arpora-based nightclub. According to eyewitness accounts, the fire spread rapidly within minutes, triggering panic and chaos inside the venue. Allegations of overcrowding, limited emergency exits, and possible safety lapses intensified the scale of the tragedy. Many victims were reportedly trapped amid heavy smoke and a stampede-like situation.
Following the incident, police registered multiple charges against the club management, including serious offences related to negligence and culpable conduct leading to death. Investigating agencies are continuing to probe the exact cause of the fire and whether mandatory fire safety norms were followed. Early findings have raised questions about the condition of fire-fighting equipment, emergency preparedness, and crowd management protocols.
During the bail hearing, the sessions court observed that given the gravity of the allegations and the stage of investigation, granting bail at this juncture would not be appropriate. The court also noted that key aspects of the probe are still underway. Both accused are currently lodged in judicial custody at Colvale Central Jail in North Goa.
Counsel representing the victims’ families welcomed the order, calling it an important step toward accountability. They argued that granting bail in a case involving such significant loss of life would send the wrong message.
On the other hand, the defence stated that they are awaiting the detailed court order before deciding their next legal move. It is understood that the Luthra brothers may approach the Goa bench of the Bombay High Court seeking bail. The defence has maintained that the accused have been cooperating with the investigation and should not be kept in prolonged custody.
In the aftermath of the fire, the Luthra brothers had travelled to Thailand. They were later detained there and deported to India on December 17. Upon their return, they were arrested and placed in judicial custody.
The incident has had a broader impact beyond the courtroom. It triggered widespread outrage and prompted the Goa government to initiate safety inspections across entertainment venues. Authorities ordered fire audits and compliance checks in major nightlife hubs, signalling stricter enforcement of safety regulations.
As the legal proceedings move forward, the rejection of bail marks a key phase in what is expected to be a prolonged trial. A detailed court order is awaited, which could further shape the direction of the case.
For now, the focus remains on the ongoing investigation and the pursuit of accountability in one of Goa’s most tragic and closely watched incidents in recent years.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
