In a significant development following the tragic Goa nightclub fire that claimed 25 lives, authorities have suspended the passports of club owners Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra. The move comes as the administration prepares to permanently revoke their travel documents, citing their attempt to flee the country shortly after the devastating blaze at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub on the night of December 6.
The Devastating Fire and Immediate Aftermath
The fire, which erupted at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Goa on December 6, resulted in the tragic loss of 25 lives, sending shockwaves across the nation. In the wake of the catastrophe, police and administrative bodies swiftly initiated action. So far, six individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident, including a partner of the club. Demonstrating a firm stance against illegal constructions and safety protocol violations, the administration also demolished another property belonging to Romeo Lane. This decisive action underscores the government's commitment to preventing future tragedies and holding those responsible accountable.
Strict Action Against Luthra Brothers
Acting on the initiative of the Goa Police, the Indian government has taken stringent measures against the Luthra brothers. Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra's passports have been suspended with immediate effect. This action signals the government's zero-tolerance policy towards such serious incidents, especially when accused individuals attempt to evade justice by fleeing the country. With their passports suspended, the next step is their complete cancellation, which will effectively bar them from international travel. This measure is designed to ensure that they remain in India to face the ongoing investigation and legal proceedings.
Passport Cancellation Process Underway
In the aftermath of the Goa nightclub fire, the Ministry of External Affairs is. Actively preparing to cancel the passports of club owners Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra. The Goa government has formally dispatched a letter to the Ministry of External Affairs requesting this action. The Ministry is currently reviewing the request in accordance with the provisions of India's Passport Act. While the initial step involved the suspension of their passports, the ultimate objective is their complete revocation. The cancellation of their passports will impose a full travel ban on the Luthra brothers, compelling them to remain within India to face the legal consequences of their alleged actions, while this process aims to prevent individuals from escaping justice after committing serious offenses.
Attempts to Flee and New Revelations
The investigation into the nightclub fire continues to uncover new details, further highlighting the gravity of the incident. It has emerged that the club owners began preparations to leave the country almost immediately after the fire broke out. Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra booked tickets to Phuket around 1 AM on December 7, a fact that strongly suggests an intent to flee and justifies the police's swift action. A Delhi court on Wednesday denied them any interim protection from arrest, even as their partner had already been apprehended. In court, the Luthra brothers' lawyer refuted the allegations of fleeing, claiming the trip was for a business meeting, while they also argued that the brothers were merely licensees and not the true owners of the nightclub. However, these arguments weren't accepted by the court, indicating a strong case against them.
Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
To date, the Goa Police have arrested a total of six individuals in connection with the nightclub fire. Among those apprehended is Ajay Gupta, a club partner hailing from Delhi. Following his appearance in court, Ajay Gupta was remanded to 36-hour transit custody, allowing the police to transport him to Goa for further interrogation, while On top of that, the nightclub's Chief General Manager Rajiv Modak, General Manager Vivek Singh, Bar Manager Rajiv Singhania, Gate Manager Riyanshu Thakur, and an employee Bharat Kohli have also been arrested. These arrests underscore the police's commitment to thoroughly investigating the matter and bringing all responsible parties to justice. The investigation is ongoing, and further revelations are anticipated as. Authorities explore deeper into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
