Goa CM Says Luthra Brothers to Be Brought Back Soon in Nightclub Fire Case

Panaji, December 11, 2025- Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has confirmed that Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra — co-owners of the ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub where a devastating fire killed 25 people — will be brought back from Thailand at the earliest.

Sawant said a joint team of Goa Police and the CBI is coordinating with Thai authorities to ensure the quick return of the two prime accused. Both were detained in Thailand earlier in the day.

The Chief Minister also stated that a local panchayat secretary, accused of failing to support the investigation, will be arrested soon. He added that while two government officers suspended after the incident are cooperating, the third official, Raghuvir Bagkar, has not been assisting the probe.

Sawant thanked the Union Home Ministry and the Ministry of External Affairs for fast-tracking procedural requirements, including international coordination to trace the accused. He said that multiple steps were taken, such as issuing a Look Out Circular, securing an Interpol Blue Corner Notice, and recommending passport cancellation.

The Luthra brothers had allegedly flown to Phuket hours after the December 6 tragedy at their North Goa establishment. They face several serious charges, including manslaughter, causing death by negligence, and organising a fire show without adequate safety arrangements, according to investigators.

Sawant reiterated that the government is taking every measure to prevent such incidents in the future and will ensure strict accountability for lapses that led to the fatal blaze.