Activists demand judicial or CBI probe into Arpora fire

VOICES OF ANGER: Activists address the media outside the ill-fated Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub on Wednesday, demanding that the deadly Arpora fire be probed by a retired judge or handed over to the CBI.

MAPUSA

Expressing profound grief over the 25 lives lost in the devastating fire at a nightclub in Arpora, a group of activists on Thursday launched a scathing attack on the State administration, demanding that the investigation be handed over to the CBI or a retired judge to ensure a “free, fair and uncompromised” probe.

Calling the tragedy a result of “systemic rot”, activists alleged that the BJP-led government presided over a complete breakdown of law enforcement and regulatory oversight, allowing the club to function despite glaring violations.

They said the establishment not only operated without mandatory safety clearances but also continued functioning despite a demolition order and multiple breaches of environmental laws – including illegal filling of salt pans and destruction of local ecology.

“The incident reflects the collapse of law and order, administrative paralysis and deep-rooted corruption across government bodies. Several ministries and departments are complicit,” charged Mapusa-based activist Sanjay Barde, holding the government directly responsible for the conditions that led to the tragedy.

The activists demanded stringent action not only against the club owners but also against government officials and the ministry concerned for allegedly enabling the illegal operations through negligence or complicity.

They further criticised the government's compensation announcement as “insultingly inadequate”.

The group demanded that compensation for the deceased be increased from ₹5 lakh to ₹50 lakh, and that the injured receive ₹5 lakh each.

Ratcheting up the pressure, activist Dipesh Naik called for the government’s resignation and imposition of Governor’s Rule, asserting that public confidence in the administration has collapsed.

“We have no trust in this government. Law and order is going from bad to worse. This government should be sent home,” Naik said.

Activist Xencor Polgi targeted the opposition as well, accusing them of failing in their basic duty to hold the government accountable.

“The opposition has failed the people. Activists are being forced to do the job they should have done,” he said.

With anger simmering and demands intensifying, the activists warned that they would escalate their campaign unless the State takes decisive action and ensures accountability at the highest levels.