Goa nightclub fire claims 25 Lives; probe ordered into safety violations

Goa nightclub fire kills 25, injures 6; FIR filed, manager held, owners face warrants. PM announces aid as leaders demand strict safety audits

A devastating fire at a popular nightclub in North Goa has claimed 25 lives and left six others injured, sending shockwaves across the state. The blaze broke out shortly after midnight at Birch by Romeo Lane, located in Arpora near Baga beach, following what police suspect was a cylinder blast.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who visited the site, announced a magisterial inquiry and confirmed that an FIR for culpable homicide has been registered. The club’s manager has already been arrested, while arrest warrants have been issued against the owners. “Whoever is found guilty will be put behind bars,” Sawant said, adding that preliminary reports suggest the establishment had failed to comply with fire safety norms.

Police confirmed that among the victims were four tourists and 14 staff members, while the identities of seven others remain to be established. Most of the deceased were kitchen staff, including three women. Eyewitnesses reported that the fire may have started on the first floor where tourists were dancing, though officials maintain investigations are ongoing.

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The tragedy has sparked widespread outrage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced ex‑gratia compensation of ₹2 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed deep sorrow, describing the incident as a “criminal failure of safety and governance,” and called for a transparent probe to ensure accountability

BJP MLA Michael Lobo also voiced concern, noting that many victims died of suffocation while attempting to escape through the basement. He stressed the need for a comprehensive safety audit of all clubs in Goa to restore confidence among tourists and protect workers.

The incident has raised serious questions about enforcement of safety regulations in Goa’s bustling nightlife industry. Authorities have pledged strict action not only against the club management but also against officials who allowed the venue to operate despite violations.

As investigations continue, the tragedy stands as a grim reminder of the importance of fire safety compliance in public spaces, especially in destinations that attract thousands of visitors each year.

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