PANAJI
Even as a magisterial inquiry is underway into the massive fire at Birch by Romeo Lane that claimed 25 lives, an activist has approached the High Court of Bombay at Goa seeking a judicial inquiry to be conducted under the supervision of a retired High Court judge.
The plea was filed through a public interest litigation (PIL), citing the gravity of the December 6 tragedy and alleging a systemic failure of the state machinery to regulate illegal clubs and nightclubs operating without mandatory licences and fire safety clearances.
“The demand for a judicial probe is necessitated by day-to-day illegalities prevailing across Goa. Numerous clubs and nightclubs are running without following due process and without obtaining the required licences from the authorities,” the petitioner stated.
The PIL seeks directions from the High Court for a judicial inquiry into the incident and for the entire investigation to be monitored by a retired High Court judge, arguing that only court supervision can ensure accountability given the seriousness of the lapses involved.
“The state machinery has completely failed to verify licences and ensure compliance. Because of this negligence, such a tragic incident occurred where 25 lives were lost overnight. It is not just an administrative failure but a dent on humanity itself,” the petition added.
The High Court has slated the matter for hearing on December 16, when it is expected to be taken up for consideration.
While police have so far arrested five persons, Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra -- brothers and among the three partners of the nightclub -- fled to Phuket, Thailand, shortly after the fire that claimed 25 lives.
Goa police had issued a Blue Corner Notice and have subsequently initiated the process to seek a Red Corner Notice for the arrest and extradition of the Luthra brothers.
