Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Decision on applications to be delivered on February 10; defence rejects reports on asset auction for victim compensation
A Mapusa court on Thursday postponed its ruling on the bail pleas filed by Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, the prime accused in the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub fire tragedy, and stated that the order will be pronounced on February 10.
During the hearing, lawyers representing the Luthra brothers informed the court that the bail order was not yet ready for announcement, leading the court to reschedule the matter for next week.
The defence also addressed media reports claiming that the State government had submitted a proposal before the High Court to compensate victims and their families by auctioning the accused’s properties. The counsel firmly refuted these reports, stating that no such direction or scheme exists.
“We have carefully examined all court records and orders, and there is absolutely nothing indicating such a proposal. My clients have not been served with any order of this nature. We have placed the relevant documents before the court,” the defence counsel submitted.
The Luthra brothers were taken into custody on December 17, 2025, following the catastrophic fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub on December 6, which resulted in the deaths of 25 people and left several others with injuries. They have remained in judicial custody for more than a month.
The incident sparked intense public anger across Goa and brought renewed focus on fire safety compliance and licensing norms at nightlife venues, particularly in coastal areas. Investigations have highlighted alleged breaches of fire safety regulations and possible failures in enforcement by multiple authorities.
The matter remains under close judicial scrutiny, with further hearings expected in both the trial court and the High Court in the days ahead.
