MAPUSA
In a continued crackdown on nightlife establishments flouting licence norms, the State government on Saturday sealed the controversial Diaz Club at Anjuna, citing repeated violations of statutory conditions and failure to comply with earlier notices issued by multiple departments.
Officials said the action followed a joint inspection conducted by teams from the Excise Department, Fire and Emergency Services, Town and Country Planning (TCP) and the local panchayat after complaints of illegal operations, overcrowding and safety lapses.
During the inspection, the club was allegedly found operating without valid fire safety clearance and in breach of conditions stipulated in its trade and excise licences.
“The establishment was given sufficient time to rectify deficiencies pointed out during previous inspections. Since there was non-compliance and continued operation in violation of norms, we had no option but to seal the premises,” a senior government official said.
According to sources, Diaz Club had earlier been served show-cause notices and warned against operating beyond permitted hours and capacity limits. Officials also flagged unauthorised structural alterations and the absence of mandatory safety measures, including emergency exits and crowd management protocols.
An officer from the Fire and Emergency Services said the action was taken in the interest of public safety.
“We cannot compromise on fire safety norms, especially after recent incidents. Repeated violations despite warnings indicate a blatant disregard for the law,” the officer said.
Local residents have long complained about noise pollution, traffic congestion and late-night disturbances linked to the club.
“The sealing was overdue. There have been complaints for months, but nothing moved until now,” said a resident of the area.
Government sources indicated that further action, including cancellation of licences and prosecution under relevant laws, is under consideration if violations are proved.
Officials also hinted that more establishments along the coastal belt are under scrutiny and similar action could follow in the coming days.
Attempts to contact the club management for comment were unsuccessful.
