MAPUSA
Arguments on the bail application of Romeo Lane co-owner Ajay Gupta in connection with the Candolim Health Centre fake health certificate case, have been completed and a Mapusa court has reserved the verdict for February 7. Mapusa police had arrested Gupta on December 23, 2025, on charges of using a fake No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Candolim PHC to obtain an excise department (excise duty) licence for the Birch Club in Arpora. This forgery had come to light during the investigation into the Birch Club fire tragedy which had claimed the lives of 25 persons. The suspect is currently in judicial custody and had applied for bail before the Mapusa JMFC court. On Saturday, the prosecution and the defence teams concluded their arguments and the court has reserved the order on the bail application for February 7.
