Panaji: A devastating fire ripped through a popular nightclub in Goa in the wee hours of December 7, 2025, claiming the lives of 25 people and injuring several others. The fatal blaze at Birch by Romeo Lane — one of North Goa’s well-known nightlife venues — has shocked the nation and triggered urgent calls for accountability.

What Happened

The fire reportedly broke out around 11:45 p.m. at the club, located in Arpora, a village near Baga beach, about 25 km from Panaji. At the time, the club was crowded, with over 100 guests on the dance floor.

According to police and survivor accounts, the blaze began on the first floor where tourists had gathered. As panic spread, many tried to escape — some fleeing downward toward the kitchen and basement. Tragically, a majority of the victims were trapped in the basement area which lacked a proper exit or ventilation. The basement became engulfed with thick smoke, leading to mass suffocation. Officials noted that only a few bodies bore burn injuries; most showed no burn marks, indicating death by suffocation.

Safety Lapses and Violation of Norms

Initial investigations reveal glaring violations: the nightclub lacked emergency exits on both the ground floor and deck, had combustible interiors and wooden furniture, and reportedly did not have valid safety clearances.

The narrow entry and exit points contributed to the tragedy: fire brigade vehicles reportedly had to park around 400 meters away, hampering rescue efforts.

State authorities have registered an FIR against the club owners — named as Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra — along with the club manager, event organizers, and other managing staff. Four staffers, including key managers, have already been arrested. A magisterial inquiry has been ordered.

Casualties and Victims

Authorities confirmed 25 fatalities — 20 of them club employees (mainly kitchen and basement staff) and five tourists. Among the deceased were individuals from multiple Indian states as well as foreign nationals. Six persons have been reported injured and are currently receiving treatment in hospitals.

Government Response and Legal Action

The Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant, visited the site and promised “stringent action” against those found responsible. He emphasized that the nightclub had not complied with fundamental fire safety norms. The state government ordered a full magisterial inquiry and institutional action against officials who permitted the club to operate despite violations.

Meanwhile, a police team has reportedly reached Delhi to arrest the club owners. Several local panchayat and pollution-control officials have been suspended for allegedly allowing the club to operate without required clearances.

National Reaction and Call for Accountability

The tragedy has reignited debates over safety protocols in India’s nightlife and entertainment sector, especially in tourist hubs like Goa. Opposition parties and civil society groups have condemned the lapses, calling it a preventable disaster, not just an accident.

Locals and survivors describe a “stampede-like chaos” as flames engulfed the club within minutes. Many have demanded stricter enforcement of fire norms, mandatory inspections, and closure of unsafe establishments.

What’s Next

The magisterial inquiry will investigate compliance with fire safety regulations and licensing norms, and determine who is legally accountable. Authorities are expected to evaluate safety standards across nightclubs and entertainment venues in Goa and similar tourist districts to prevent such disasters. Victims’ families await clarity on compensation and restitution — while public outcry mounts for tighter governance and fire-safety enforcement nationwide.

The tragic fire at Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora has exposed dangerous oversight failures. As Goa mourns the loss of lives, this catastrophe must serve as a wake-up call: safety of patrons and workers must never be compromised for business gains.