Twenty-eight years have passed since the Uphaar Cinema tragedy claimed 59 lives. That was enough time to fix failures and prevent repeat disasters. Yet, from a packed cinema hall in Delhi to a crowded nightclub in Goa, the pattern remains the same. Illegal structures, missing fire clearances, blocked exits and delayed emergency response continue to put lives at risk. Promises are made after every tragedy, but real change is rare.
The recent Goa nightclub tragedy has revealed serious lapses, including the absence of a valid fire NOC, non-working fire alarms and poor emergency exits. For survivors and families, this was negligence, not an accident. The Goa government has ordered audits and sealed venues without fire licences. However, inspections often happen only after lives are lost. Laws exist, but enforcement is weak. Families seek accountability beyond venue owners. Justice means ensuring no night of celebration ever ends in death. Prevention must come before tragedy.
