Goa Nightclub Fire: Co-Owner Ajay Gupta’s Police Custody Extended

A court in Goa has extended the police remand of Ajay Gupta, co-owner of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, for an additional four days following a tragic fire that occurred on December 6, resulting in the deaths of 25 individuals. Gupta, who was arrested in New Delhi on December 10, initially faced a seven-day remand issued by a Mapusa court.

During a hearing, Gupta’s lawyer, Rohan Desai, informed the media that the court decided to prolong his client’s police custody as the initial remand was nearing its expiration. Gupta had also expressed concerns about back pain, prompting the court to order a medical examination. After being assessed by a specialist at the Goa Medical College and Hospital, he was permitted to use a mattress while in custody.

The devastating blaze at the nightclub, located in Arpora in North Goa, took place around midnight on December 6. Among the victims were 20 staff members and five tourists, highlighting the tragic impact of the incident.

In addition to Gupta, authorities have arrested a total of eight individuals related to the case. This includes co-owners Gaurav Luthra and his brother Saurabh Luthra, who were recently deported from Thailand. The arrests also encompassed five other staff members: Rajiv Modak (Corporate General Manager), Priyanshu Thakur (Gate Manager), Rajveer Singhania (Bar Manager), Vivek Singh (General Manager), and Bharat Karan Singh Kohli (employee).

Authorities have issued a Look Out Circular (LOC) for another co-owner, Surinder Kumar Khosla, a British citizen, as investigations continue into the incident. The case has drawn significant media attention, given the loss of life and the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the nightclub’s operation.

As the investigation unfolds, the community remains in mourning, grappling with the aftermath of the fire that has left a profound mark on the region. The court’s decision to extend Gupta’s custody reflects the seriousness of the situation and the ongoing efforts to seek justice for the victims and their families.