Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The High Court of Bombay at Goa has taken suo motu cognizance of the tragic fire incident at Birch by Romeo Lane and initiated proceedings to examine lapses leading to the incident.
The High Court has appointed Advocate Rohit Bras De Sa as amicus curiae to assist the court in the matter.
During the hearing, the High Court observed that the core issue lies in the existence of illegal structures.
The court noted that there are adequate provisions empowering local bodies to take action against illegal constructions; however, such action was not taken.
The court further observed that in certain cases, commercial licences were granted to establishments operating from illegal structures, raising serious concerns about regulatory failures.
The court emphasised the responsibility of local authorities in ensuring compliance with building laws and safety norms, especially in commercial establishments frequented by the public.
The matter has been posted for further hearing on January 8, when the court is expected to seek responses from the concerned authorities and examine the steps taken to prevent recurrence of such incidents.
