Source HT
Panaji, Goa — Saurabh Luthra, the self-proclaimed “gold-medalist” techie-turned-restaurateur and co-owner of the upscale Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in North Goa, has been booked for culpable homicide and is currently absconding following a devastating fire that claimed the lives of 25 people and injured several others.
The blaze, which ripped through the Arpora-based establishment late Saturday night, has exposed serious safety lapses and alleged illegal construction, turning the popular weekend spot into a scene of one of Goa’s worst nightlife tragedies.
The Man Behind the Brand
Saurabh Luthra’s public profile, as advertised on the Romeo Lane website, portrays him as an engineer and gold medalist who successfully transitioned into a “fastest-growing restaurateur,” known for his hospitality ventures like the Romeo Lane chain. His LinkedIn lists him as Chairman of the Romeo Lane, Birch, and Mama’s Buoi brands, with ambitions to launch 50 restaurants across India.
However, Luthra has been described by local activists and staff as an “aloof” figure, rarely present in Goa and often sending representatives to handle legal proceedings, including prior complaints regarding noise pollution and illegal construction.
Deadly Tragedy and Safety Lapses
The fire, which police suspect may have been triggered by a cylinder blast or possibly a fireworks show, broke out in the early hours of Sunday. Reports indicate that most of the victims—comprising 20 staff members and five tourists—died primarily due to suffocation.
Investigations have quickly zeroed in on the club’s alleged serious safety violations. The FIR filed by Goa Police names Saurabh Luthra, his co-owner Gaurav Luthra, and others, citing that the nightclub was operating “without obtaining permissions/licences from the competent authorities.”
Key issues being investigated include:
Operating without a Fire Department No-Objection Certificate (NOC).
Narrow access roads that severely hampered fire-fighting efforts.
Illegal construction in an environmentally sensitive zone (a former saltpan) that was previously flagged for a demolition notice.
A design that reportedly had only one main exit, trapping people inside.
Police Action and Owners’ Response
Goa Police have issued a Look Out Circular (LOC) against Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra. Police sources have stated that the Luthra brothers reportedly fled to Phuket in the hours following the tragedy, indicating an intent to evade the investigation. Authorities are coordinating with the CBI’s Interpol Division to apprehend them.
Meanwhile, four senior managers—including the Chief General Manager and Bar Manager—have been arrested, and another employee responsible for daily operations was detained in Delhi. The sarpanch (head) of the local Arpora-Nagoa village panchayat has also been detained for questioning regarding the allegedly illegal permissions.
In an initial statement released via social media, the management expressed “profound grief” and said they were “deeply shaken” by the loss of life, affirming that they would extend “every possible form of assistance, support and cooperation” to the affected families.
The Goa government has constituted an inquiry committee and announced financial assistance for the victims’ families, vowing strict action against all officials and individuals responsible for allowing the club to operate despite the violations.
