Goa Nightclub Fire Case: Court Extends Police Custody of Co-Owner Ajay Gupta Amid Ongoing Investigation
Goa Nightclub Fire Case: A court in Goa has extended the police remand of Ajay Gupta, one of the co-owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, by an additional four days as investigations continue into the tragic fire that claimed 25 lives. The incident, which occurred on the night of December 6 in North Goa’s Arpora area, has raised serious questions about safety standards, management responsibility, and regulatory compliance within the hospitality sector.
Court Decision and Custody Extension
Ajay Gupta was presented before a lower court in Mapusa after the completion of his initial seven-day police remand. The court, after hearing submissions from the prosecution, decided to grant the police an additional four days of custody to further question Gupta and gather more evidence related to the case. His lawyer, Rohan Desai, confirmed the court’s decision while addressing media representatives outside the courtroom.
The extension of custody indicates that investigators believe further interrogation is necessary to establish accountability and uncover the sequence of events that led to the devastating blaze. Authorities are reportedly focusing on operational decisions, fire safety arrangements, and compliance with legal norms at the nightclub.
Medical Examination and Court Directions
During the court proceedings, Gupta complained of back pain, prompting the judge to order a medical examination. Following this directive, he was examined by a specialized doctor at the Goa Medical College and Hospital. Based on the medical assessment, the court allowed him the use of a mattress while in police custody to ensure basic medical comfort.
This development reflects the court’s effort to balance investigative requirements with the health and legal rights of the accused, while ensuring that due process is followed throughout the investigation.
Details of the Fatal Fire Incident
The tragic fire broke out around midnight on December 6 at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, a popular venue frequented by both locals and tourists. The blaze resulted in the deaths of 25 people, including 20 staff members and five tourists. The incident sent shockwaves across the state and sparked widespread outrage over alleged lapses in fire safety and emergency preparedness.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire spread rapidly, leaving little time for evacuation. Survivors and witnesses have raised concerns about overcrowding, inadequate exits, and the absence of effective fire control measures.
Arrests Made So Far in the Case
So far, eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the case. Apart from Ajay Gupta, the police have taken into custody two other owners of the nightclub, Gaurav Luthra and his brother Saurabh Luthra. The two were reportedly deported from Thailand and subsequently arrested upon their return to India.
In addition to the owners, five staff members of the nightclub have also been arrested. These include Rajiv Modak, the Corporate General Manager; Priyanshu Thakur, the Gate Manager; Rajveer Singhania, the Bar Manager; Vivek Singh, the General Manager; and Bharat Karan Singh Kohli, an employee. Investigators are examining their individual roles and responsibilities on the night of the incident.
Look Out Circular Against Another Owner
Police have also issued a Look Out Circular against Surinder Kumar Khosla, another co-owner of the nightclub who holds British citizenship. Authorities stated that the LOC was issued to prevent him from leaving or entering the country without informing law enforcement agencies. Efforts are ongoing to trace his whereabouts and secure his cooperation in the investigation.
Bail Application and Ongoing Probe
On the same day the remand was extended, Ajay Gupta filed a bail application, which is expected to be heard by the court in due course. Meanwhile, the investigation continues as police gather documents, inspect the crime scene, and record statements from witnesses and experts.
The case has drawn national attention and reignited debates around nightclub safety regulations, licensing procedures, and enforcement mechanisms. As the legal process unfolds, families of the victims continue to seek justice and accountability for one of the deadliest nightclub fires in recent memory.