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The Goa government has begun work on a ghat aarti facility at Naroa village on the Mandovi river, aiming to promote religious tourism along the lines of Haridwar and Varanasi.

Goa's New 'Ghat Aarti' Facility on River Mandovi Set to Boost Religious Tourism

Boost to Religious Tourism: Goa's Ghat Aarti

The Goa government has begun work on a ghat aarti facility at Naroa village on the Mandovi river, aiming to promote religious tourism along the lines of Haridwar and Varanasi.

In an attempt to boost religious tourism, the Goa government has started work on developing a 'ghat aarti' facility on the banks of the River Mandovi in Naroa, along the lines of iconic riverfront religious sites such as Haridwar, Varanasi and Nashik.
State Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte informed the state legislative assembly that the 'ghat aarti' at Naroa village in North Goa could emerge as a major attraction for pilgrims and tourists.
Situated on the banks of the River Mandovi, Naroa village is home to the Shree Saptakoteshwar Temple, rebuilt by Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
In a written reply during the recently held winter session of the state assembly, Khaunte stated that a work order amounting to Rs 10.85 crore has been issued for the project, and construction commenced on October 1, 2025, with completion scheduled for May 29.
He said that the project has been awarded to M/s IB Construction, with a completion period of 240 days, excluding the monsoon season.
The proposed 'ghat aarti' facility is expected to strengthen religious tourism in the state and add a new spiritual landmark along Goa's riverfronts, he said.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissions the Indian Coast Guard’s indigenously designed pollution control vessel ‘Samudra Pratap’ in Goa, enhancing maritime security, pollution control, and search-and-rescue capabilities.

Rajnath Singh Commissions India's First Indigenous Pollution Control Vessel

Rajnath Singh Commissions Pollution Control Ship

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissions the Indian Coast Guard&rsquo;s indigenously designed pollution control vessel &lsquo;Samudra Pratap&rsquo; in Goa, enhancing maritime security, pollution control, and search-and-rescue capabilities.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissioned the Indian Coast Guard's (ICG) first indigenously designed and built pollution control vessel 'Samudra Pratap' in Goa on Monday.
The 114.5-metre vessel, built by the Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), has over 60 per cent of indigenous content. The 4,200-tonne vessel boasts a speed of more than 22 knots and an endurance of 6,000 nautical miles, officials said.
It will serve as a critical platform for enforcing marine pollution control regulations, maritime law enforcement, search and rescue operations, and safeguarding India&rsquo;s Exclusive Economic Zone.
As the largest and most advanced pollution control vessel built in India, Samudra Pratap stands as a testament to the nation's shipbuilding excellence and long-term vision for a cleaner, safer, and self-reliant maritime future, the ICG said in a statement.
The vessel was formally delivered in December to the Coast Guard at GSL. Defence Minister Singh on Monday commissioned the ship at GSL, Vasco, in South Goa.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Union Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and ICG Director General Paramesh Sivamani were present on the occasion.
Singh said this occasion is connected to India's great maritime vision. "India believes that marine resources are not the property of any one country; they are the shared heritage of humanity," he said.
"When heritage is shared, its responsibility is also shared. This is why India has today become a responsible maritime power," he added.
Singh noted that Samudra Pratap is India's first indigenously designed pollution control vessel. "It is the largest vessel in the Coast Guard fleet to date," he said.
More than 60 per cent indigenous material has been used in it. "In itself, this is a strong step forward in the direction of a self-reliant India. The true meaning of 'Make in India' is visible in projects like this," he said.
Singh said that "even in such a complex platform, we have achieved this level of indigenous content, which shows that our defence industrial ecosystem has now become quite mature."
"But it needs to become even more mature. I want not just 60 per cent, but up to 90 per cent indigenous content in our ships. This is our endeavour," he commented.
India has achieved such capabilities in defence manufacturing that today it is able to handle even complex challenges related to manufacturing, he said.
Singh said that in recent years, marine pollution has been seen emerging as a serious challenge.
"It is obvious that as marine pollution increases, it will affect the livelihood of fishermen, the future of coastal communities, and the safety of our coming generations," he pointed out.
Singh also said that ensuring adequate participation of women is the goal of their government.
"I am happy that, keeping this vision in mind, the Coast Guard has given due attention to women's empowerment. This is a matter of pride for us," he said.
He noted that women officers have been appointed to important responsibilities such as pilot, observer, air traffic controller, and logistics officer.
"Not only this, they are being trained for hovercraft operations. They are being actively deployed in frontline operations. Today, women are not only in support roles, but are also serving as front-line warriors," he said.
The commissioning of 'Samudra Pratap' marks a major step forward in India's pursuit of 'atmanirbharta' (self-reliance) in shipbuilding and maritime capability development, the ICG said.
Samudra Pratap, meaning Majesty of the Seas, reflects the Indian Coast Guard's resolve to ensure safe, secure and clean seas while safeguarding the nation's maritime interests.
The ship represents a major advancement in indigenous ship design and construction, it said.
The vessel has been entirely conceived, designed, and built in India with over 60 per cent indigenous content.
Measuring 114.5 meters in length and 16.5 meters in beam, the ship can achieve speeds exceeding 22 knots and is equipped with advanced automation and computerised control systems, underscoring India's growing capability in complex shipbuilding, the ICG said.
Displacing approximately 4,200 tons, the ship is powered by two 7,500 kW diesel engines driving indigenously developed controllable pitch propellers and gearboxes, offering superior manoeuvrability, flexibility and endurance of 6,000 nautical miles.
The vessel's primary role is pollution response at sea, supported by state-of-the-art systems including side-sweeping arms, floating booms, high-capacity skimmers, portable barges, and a pollution control laboratory, the ICG said.
The ship is also fitted with an external fire-fighting system (Fi-Fi Class 1) and integrates advanced systems such as dynamic positioning, integrated bridge system, integrated platform management system, and automated power management system to enhance automation and mission efficiency.
Its armament includes a 30 mm CRN-91 gun and two 12.7 mm stabilised remote-controlled guns supported by modern fire-control systems.
Commanded by Deputy Inspector General Ashok Kumar Bhama, the ship, to be based at Kochi, has a complement of 14 officers and 115 personnel.
The complement includes the maiden appointment of two women officers who will be performing duties shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts, the ICG said.

Goa rang in the New Year with massive beach celebrations, fireworks and parties as North Goa faced heavy traffic, while Chief Minister Pramod Sawant urged unity and self-reliance.

Goa Beaches Welcome New Year with Fireworks and Festivities

Goa New Year Festivities Light Up the Beaches

Goa rang in the New Year with massive beach celebrations, fireworks and parties as North Goa faced heavy traffic, while Chief Minister Pramod Sawant urged unity and self-reliance.

Joyous crowds thronged Goa&rsquo;s beaches on Wednesday night to ring in the New Year amid fireworks, music and parties, with major coastal stretches in North Goa witnessing heavy traffic jams, officials and locals said.
Thousands of revellers gathered along popular beaches, including Calangute, Sinquerim, Baga, Vagator, Arambol and Kerim, where seaside shacks, nightspots and open-air venues hosted celebrations that continued late into the night.
At the stroke of midnight, the skies over the coastline lit up with colourful fireworks as people cheered, hugged and wished one another, ushering in the New Year to the sound of music and waves.
Police said vehicular movement towards major beach belts remained slow for several hours. Roads were jam-packed with tourist vehicles and two-wheelers heading to celebration spots and return traffic after midnight.
Local authorities deployed additional police personnel for crowd and traffic management in party hotspots, while lifeguards kept vigil along the shoreline.
Goa, one of the country&rsquo;s most sought-after New Year destinations, saw restaurants, beach shacks and nightclubs packed with tourists and locals.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant greeted the people of the coastal state and expressed hope that the coming year would usher in peace, prosperity, good health, and happiness to every Goan.
In his message, he appealed to citizens to continue supporting the government&rsquo;s efforts in effectively implementing various welfare schemes and development initiatives across the state.
Sawant emphasised that people&rsquo;s cooperation is essential to accelerate growth, strengthen public services, and ensure that the benefits of development reach all sections of society.
He urged Goans to actively participate in the &lsquo;Swayampurna Goa&rsquo; mission and strive towards greater self-reliance. Sawant said the initiative aims to empower individuals, communities, and local governance structures, fostering sustainable livelihoods and enhancing overall quality of life.
Sawant also called upon the people to uphold the Goa&rsquo;s cherished tradition of religious harmony, mutual respect, and collective well-being. This spirit of togetherness is one of Goa&rsquo;s greatest strengths and must continue to shine in the year ahead, he added.

Goa Police took nightclub co-owners Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra to Anjuna police station after medical examination following their deportation from Thailand in the December 6 fire case.

Goa nightclub fire: Luthra brothers taken to Anjuna police station after medical examination

Goa Police took nightclub co-owners Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra to Anjuna police station after medical examination following their deportation from Thailand in the December 6 fire case.

Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, co-owners of the &lsquo;Birch by Romeo Lane&rsquo; nightclub, were taken to Anjuna police station after their medical examination at the District Hospital in North Goa on Wednesday. The health check-up went on for more than an hour.
The siblings were brought to Goa from Delhi earlier in the day after being deported from Thailand in connection with the December 6 fire incident that killed 25 persons. They will be interrogated by the Goa Police in connection with the devastating fire at the nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, an official said.
A team of the Goa Police, along with the Luthra brothers, landed at the Manohar International Airport, Mopa, in North Goa at 10.45 am. The duo was initially taken to a Primary Health Centre at Siolim in North Goa for medical examination. They were later taken to the District Hospital at Mapusa in North Goa.
After their medical check-up, which took over an hour, the Luthra brothers were taken to the Anjuna police station, about 10 km from there. A convoy of six police jeeps accompanied them from the airport to the medical facility. According to eyewitnesses, the two brothers were made to sit in separate vehicles.
The accused will also be produced before a court in Mapusa town for their regular remand, an official said. After the fire tragedy, the Anjuna police had registered a case against the Luthra brothers on various charges, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder.
The Luthra brothers were arrested on Tuesday as soon as they landed in Delhi after being deported from Thailand. A court there allowed the Goa Police their two-day transit remand.
The duo had fled to Phuket in Thailand early on December 7, hours after the fire at their nightclub, prompting the authorities to issue an Interpol Blue Corner Notice and cancel their passports. They were detained by Thai authorities at Phuket on December 11 following a request from the Indian government, which later coordinated with officials in Thailand to deport them under legal treaties between the two nations.
Five managers and staff members have already been arrested by the Goa Police in connection with the fire.

Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, co-owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, were brought to Goa after being deported from Thailand in connection with the December 6 fire that killed 25 people.

Luthra Brothers to Face Interrogation in Goa After Deportation

Luthra Brothers Face Inquiry for Goa Fire

Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, co-owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, were brought to Goa after being deported from Thailand in connection with the December 6 fire that killed 25 people.

Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, co-owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, were brought to Goa from Delhi on Wednesday after being deported from Thailand in connection with the December 6 fire incident that killed 25 persons.
They will be interrogated by the Goa Police in connection with the devastating fire at the nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, an official said. A team of the Goa Police, along with the Luthra brothers, landed at the Manohar International Airport, Mopa, in North Goa at 10.45 am.
The duo was initially taken to a Primary Health Centre at Siolim in North Goa for medical examination. They were later taken to the District Hospital at Mapusa in North Goa. A convoy of six police jeeps accompanied them from the airport to the medical facility. According to eyewitnesses, the two brothers were made to sit in separate vehicles.
They are likely to be taken to the Anjuna police station for questioning. The accused will also be produced before a court in Mapusa town for their regular remand, an official said. After the fire tragedy, the Anjuna police had registered a case against the Luthra brothers on various charges, including culpable homicide not amounting to murder.
The Luthra brothers were arrested on Tuesday as soon as they landed in Delhi after being deported from Thailand. A court there allowed the Goa Police their two-day transit remand.
The duo had fled to Phuket (Thailand) early on December 7, hours after the fire at their nightclub, prompting the authorities to issue an Interpol Blue Corner Notice and cancel their passports. They were detained by Thai authorities at Phuket on December 11 following a request from the Indian government, which later coordinated with officials in Thailand to deport them under legal treaties between the two nations.
Five managers and staff members have already been arrested by the Goa Police in connection with the fire.

Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, co-owners of the Goa nightclub where 25 died, arrive in Delhi from Thailand for further investigation and transit remand.

Goa nightclub fire accused Saurabh, Gaurav Luthra arrive in Delhi

Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, co-owners of the Goa nightclub where 25 died, arrive in Delhi from Thailand for further investigation and transit remand.

Gaurav Luthra and Saurabh Luthra, co-owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Goa where a massive fire killed 25 people, were deported from Thailand on Tuesday and taken into custody by Delhi and Goa police as soon as they landed in Delhi.
The brothers arrived in the Indian capital in an Indigo flight and were immediately handed over to authorities for further legal proceedings, 10 days after a blaze tore through the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora in North Goa.
Gaurav, 44 and Saurabh, 40, will be produced before a Delhi court where the Goa police will seek their transit remand.
A TV reporter tracking the brothers from Bangkok attempted to shoot inside the aircraft, prompting the airlines and accompanying security officials to summon additional force to whisk away the two men.
The Luthra brothers are facing a case of culpable homicide and negligence following the December 6 tragedy, which investigators allege was compounded by the nightclub operating in violation of mandatory fire safety norms.
The incident raised serious questions over alleged fire safety violations and lapses by the management.
Gaurav and Saurabh fled to Phuket in the early hours of December 7, hours after the fire at their nightclub, prompting the authorities to issue an Interpol Blue Corner Notice and cancel their passports.
The duo was detained by Thai authorities at Phuket on December 11 following a request from the Indian government which later coordinated with officials in Thailand to deport them under legal treaties between the two nations.
On December 11, a Delhi court rejected the transit anticipatory bail pleas.
Additional Sessions Judge Vandana termed the allegations against the brothers "prima facie grave and serious" and severely criticised their "conduct."
The court took note of the police investigation that the brothers had booked tickets to Phuket one hour after the fire, a fact their counsel had initially "concealed" while seeking protection from immediate arrest.
The judge said that leaving immediately after the tragedy was a clear attempt to "evade the legal process".
Observing that "someone has to be held accountable" for the tragedy, the Goa bench of the Bombay High Court on Monday converted a civil suit against the nightclub into a public interest litigation (PIL).

Thailand has deported Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, co-owners of the North Goa nightclub where 25 people died in a fire, to India for further legal proceedings.

Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra Deported to India Over Deadly Goa Nightclub Fire

Luthra Brothers Deported to India for Goa Club Fire

Thailand has deported Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, co-owners of the North Goa nightclub where 25 people died in a fire, to India for further legal proceedings.

Thailand authorities on Tuesday deported Gaurav Luthra and Saurabh Luthra, co-owners of the Goa nightclub where 25 people were killed in a fire earlier this month, to India amid an ongoing probe into the tragedy.
They have boarded a flight for Delhi and will be handed over to Indian authorities on arrival, sources said. The duo will be produced before a Delhi court for further legal proceedings, they said. A case of culpable homicide and negligence has been registered against them in connection with the fire.
Videos circulating online showed Gaurav, 44, and Saurav, 40, being escorted by Thai police at Bangkok airport ahead of their departure for India.
The deportation comes days after the two were detained in Phuket on December 11 following the intervention of the Indian mission, which was in close touch with the Thai government in the case.
The Luthra brothers, co-owners of &lsquo;Birch by Romeo Lane&rsquo; nightclub in Arpora in North Goa, had left for Thailand shortly after the December 6 fire. They were reportedly attending a wedding in Delhi at the time of the incident. An Interpol Blue Corner Notice was issued against the duo.
The blaze had sparked widespread outrage and raised serious questions over alleged safety violations and lapses by the nightclub management. The Indian government, after cancelling the passports of the two brothers, had submitted a dossier to Thai authorities alleging their involvement in the deaths of 25 people and formally sought their deportation. India and Thailand signed an Extradition Treaty in 2013, which came into force in June 2015.
The Goa Police have so far arrested five managers and staff members of the nightclub in connection with the case.
Meanwhile, the Bombay High Court on Monday converted a civil suit against the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub into a Public Interest Litigation, observing that &ldquo;someone has to be held accountable&rdquo; for the tragedy.

Goa authorities have sealed popular restaurant The Cape Goa in South Goa for violating fire and safety norms, citing an imminent threat to human life after a recent deadly nightclub fire.

Goa nightclub fire aftermath: Popular restaurant 'The Cape Goa' sealed for violation of rules

Goa authorities have sealed popular restaurant The Cape Goa in South Goa for violating fire and safety norms, citing an imminent threat to human life after a recent deadly nightclub fire.

Authorities have sealed 'The Cape Goa', a prominent restaurant located on a cliff in South Goa district, for violation of fire and other safety norms, officials said on Tuesday.
The Tourism Department had granted permission for one temporary private shack, but it was observed that the establishment was operating a full-fledged restaurant beyond the sanctioned plinth area, according to the sealing order issued on Monday.
Continued operation of the premises without mandatory safety clearances poses an imminent, grave and real threat to human life and property, particularly in the event of fire, electrical short-circuit, structural failure, or any emergency requiring evacuation, it said.
The action comes after a massive fire at a nightclub in Arporal, North Goa, on December 6 claimed 25 lives.
Chairperson of the joint enforcement and monitoring committee, Canacona taluka, Maya Pednekar, on Monday issued the order to seal 'The Cape Goa', located on a cliff at Cabo de Rama Fort in Kuddi village of South Goa district.
A team led by Pednekar carried out an inspection of the premises on December 12 and found several violations at the popular restaurant, the officials said.
The sealing notice mentions that there was an "imminent threat to human life and property".
"Upon careful consideration of the inspection report and material placed before me, I am satisfied that the danger is real, proximate and imminent; the premises is being used in a manner endangering public safety; and immediate intervention is necessary in the interest of protection of human life and property," the order said.
The committee, during the inspection, observed that the restaurant was being operated and used in gross violation of mandatory statutory safety requirements.
The premises was found overcrowded, accommodating more than 24 persons, far beyond permissible limits; no approved structural plan or structural stability certificate was produced; the kitchen was found unsafe, having no proper exit, and was operating with a high fire hazard risk, as per the order.
"The pantry section had no exit, posing a serious safety hazard. 29 commercial LPG cylinders were found stored in the open, near the exhaust blower/duct, which is extremely unsafe. The absence of a designated LPG bank and non-installation of LPG gas leak detectors posed a serious and immediate fire and explosion hazard," it said.
There was no separate exit provided from the restaurant area, while fire extinguishers and fire-fighting equipment were absent in the restaurant seating area, kitchen, staff pantry, storeroom, bakery, and additional storeroom located below the restaurant, Pednekar stated.
"The kitchen area and movement/ entry routes were obstructed, and cooking ranges were placed in movement areas. No clear signage indicating entry, exit, escape routes, or assembly point was displayed," the order said.
The committee pointed out that the exit point was obstructed by 29 commercial LPG cylinders and the MCB distribution board was found open and unsafe. Loose connections/joints were noticed and the entire wiring was dangerous.
It also observed that the Tourism Department had granted permission for one temporary private shack.
"However, it was observed that the establishment is operating a full-fledged restaurant beyond the sanctioned plinth area, with a bar counter, attached kitchen, bakery, pantry, staff mess (with approximately 120 staff members), staff rooms in the basement, around 40 tables with an average seating capacity of 120 persons, housekeeping room, electrical room, feeding room, additional storage room, spa room, etc., which is far in excess of the capacity and area approved by the Tourism Department," the order said.

Thailand is set to take up the case of Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, co-owners of the Goa nightclub where 25 died in a fire, with a Bangkok court likely to determine the next legal steps amid India’s deportation request.

Thailand Advances Case of Indian Nightclub Fire Suspects

Advancements in Luthra Brothers' Case

Thailand is set to take up the case of Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, co-owners of the Goa nightclub where 25 died in a fire, with a Bangkok court likely to determine the next legal steps amid India&rsquo;s deportation request.

Thailand authorities are set to take up the case involving Gaurav Luthra and Saurabh Luthra, the co-owners of the Goa nightclub where 25 people were killed in a fire on December 6, with a Bangkok court likely to decide the next course of action, sources said.
The Luthras, co-owners of 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub located in Arpora in North Goa, left for Phuket, Thailand, shortly after the fire incident. An Interpol Blue Corner Notice has been issued against them.
The Luthra brothers were detained by Thai authorities in Phuket on December 11 following an intervention by the Indian mission, which is in close touch with the Thai government in the case.
According to sources in the Indian Embassy, all relevant documents related to the two brothers have been transferred through official legal channels. Legal developments suggest the case is likely to be argued before a Bangkok court.
"The matter is expected to move forward once a local court in Bangkok begins hearing the case. However, there is no clarity yet on the timeline, as proceedings will depend on when the judge takes up the matter," sources in the embassy told PTI.
Senior advocate Javed Mir is leading a team of lawyers representing the Luthra brothers, while advocate Vaibhav Suri has also reached Bangkok. Various legal options under Thai law are being explored to contest the case, sources said.
The Indian government, after cancelling the passports of the two brothers, has submitted a dossier to Thai authorities alleging their involvement in the deaths of 25 people. The allegations, sources said, take the case beyond the scope of culpable homicide. India has also formally requested Thai authorities to deport the brothers.
Thai authorities, meanwhile, are examining the legal complexities involved. The brothers are stated to have entered Thailand on valid travel documents, which were later revoked by Indian authorities, leaving them without valid papers. This has prompted Thai officials to examine the issue from multiple legal perspectives, including aspects related to basic human rights, sources said.
Indian government sources on Friday reportedly said that authorities in Thailand are initiating the process to deport the Luthra brothers. However, with legal and diplomatic considerations at play, the embassy sources indicated that the duo is unlikely to return to India in the immediate future.
The matter is now expected to be subject to detailed arguments before a local court, where all parties will be heard before any final decision is taken, they said.
Five managers and staff members have already been arrested by the Goa Police in connection with the fire.

Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Goa, are being deported from Thailand to India following a deadly fire that claimed 25 lives. They will face charges of culpable homicide and negligence.

Goa nightclub fire: Luthra brothers’ deportation process from Thailand begins

Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Goa, are being deported from Thailand to India following a deadly fire that claimed 25 lives. They will face charges of culpable homicide and negligence.

The deportation of Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra from Thailand is now officially in progress, following the deadly fire at their Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, Goa, which claimed 25 lives earlier this month.
Thai authorities confirmed that the brothers were detained in Phuket and transferred to the Bangkok immigration office. There, they will be handed over to Indian officials before being flown back to India to face legal proceedings.
Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, co-owners of the nightclub, had fled India within hours of the tragedy on December 7, boarding an IndiGo flight while emergency crews were still battling the blaze. Their passports had been suspended by the Regional Passport Office in Delhi after they failed to respond to notices regarding their travel documents. This suspension rendered the passports invalid in Thailand, enabling authorities to act swiftly on India&rsquo;s detention request.
Thai police tracked the duo using travel records, confiscated their belongings, and moved them to an immigration detention centre. Photographs released by the Thai authorities showed both men in handcuffs. They are expected to remain in custody until the deportation procedures conclude.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed that a police escort team will be dispatched to Thailand and that the brothers will be arrested immediately upon landing in India. With no direct flights between Thailand and Goa, the Luthras will first be brought to Delhi before being transported to Goa.
Investigators said the brothers booked last-minute tickets to Phuket at 1:17 am on December 7, even as firefighters struggled to contain the inferno at their club. By 5:30 am, they had boarded IndiGo flight 6E-1073 and left the country. Later that morning, Goa Police arrived in Delhi with arrest warrants, searched their residence and offices, and issued notices. Interpol also released a Blue Corner Notice to trace their movements.
The fire, which erupted around 11:45 pm on December 6, is believed to have started when electric firecrackers ignited a wooden ceiling during an event attended by over 150 people. Many managed to escape, but several were trapped in the basement after the exit route caught fire.
Police have arrested partner Ajay Gupta, 55, and five other nightclub staff members. Investigations revealed shocking violations of fire safety norms, including heavy use of flammable decor and absence of functional extinguishers.
The Luthra brothers&rsquo; deportation is being coordinated by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian Embassy in Thailand, and the Central Bureau of Investigation, in partnership with the Royal Thai Police. The extradition process is being facilitated under the India-Thailand treaty operational since 2015.
Upon their return to India, the Delhi-based restaurateurs will face charges of culpable homicide not amounting to murder and negligence in connection with the nightclub tragedy. Their plea for anticipatory bail has already been rejected by the Delhi court.

Thailand police have detained Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, who fled India after a Goa nightclub fire killed 25 people. The detention follows an Interpol Blue Corner Notice at India’s request.

Goa nightclub fire: Owners Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra detained in Thailand

Thailand police have detained Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, who fled India after a Goa nightclub fire killed 25 people. The detention follows an Interpol Blue Corner Notice at India&rsquo;s request.

The Thailand Police have detained Saurabh Luthra and his brother Gaurav Luthra, who fled India after a fire at their Goa nightclub claimed 25 lives, officials said on Thursday.
The nightclub co-owners, against whom an Interpol Blue Corner Notice had been issued, were detained at the request of the Indian government, they said.
Both the accused have been detained at Phuket in Thailand, and a process is underway to bring them to India, senior officials confirmed to PTI.
The duo booked their tickets for Phuket through a travel portal at 1.17 am on December 7, within an hour of learning about the devastating fire at 'Birch by Romeo Lane', their nightclub at Arpora in North Goa, as per officials.
At the time when police and administration were still battling the blaze and attempting to rescue staff, the two left India in the early hours of Sunday by an IndiGo flight.
The Goa Police had approached the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for the issuance of the Blue Corner Notice against them.

The MEA is reviewing Goa’s request to revoke the passports of Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, who left for Thailand after a nightclub fire killed 25 people, as legal and police actions intensify.

Goa nightclub fire: MEA considering Goa govt's request to revoke passports of Luthras

The MEA is reviewing Goa&rsquo;s request to revoke the passports of Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, who left for Thailand after a nightclub fire killed 25 people, as legal and police actions intensify.

The Ministry of External Affairs is considering revoking the passports of Gaurav Luthra and Saurabh Luthra, co-owners of the Goa nightclub where 25 people were killed in a fire on December 6, following a request from the state government.&nbsp;
Sources said on Wednesday that the ministry has received a communication from the Goa government with regard to Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra. It is examining the request to revoke their passports under the Passports Act of India, in accordance with the rules, they said.&nbsp;
Brothers Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, who are co-owners of 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub in North Goa, left for Phuket, Thailand shortly after the fire incident.&nbsp;
An Interpol Blue Corner Notice has been issued against them.&nbsp;
A Delhi court on Wednesday refused to give any interim protection from arrest to the duo, while their partner was held in connection with the fire incident.&nbsp;
In the court, the Luthras' lawyer refuted allegations that they had fled, claiming the trip was for a business meeting, and argued that the brothers are only licensees, not the actual owners of the nightclub.&nbsp;
Five managers and staff members have already been arrested by Goa Police in connection with the fire that broke out at the nightclub located in Arpora, 25 km from Panaji, around midnight on December 6.&nbsp;

Fugitive club owners Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra told a Delhi court they were not involved in day-to-day operations of the Goa nightclub where 25 people died and alleged authorities were acting vindictively as they seek protection to return to India.

Luthra brothers deny managing Goa nightclub, allege vindictive action after deadly fire

Fugitive club owners Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra told a Delhi court they were not involved in day-to-day operations of the Goa nightclub where 25 people died and alleged authorities were acting vindictively as they seek protection to return to India.

Fugitive businessmen Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, wanted in connection with the December 7 blaze at Birch by Romeo Lane in Goa that claimed 25 lives, informed a Delhi court on Wednesday that they were not involved in the nightclub&rsquo;s daily functioning and alleged that authorities were acting against them with &ldquo;vindictive&rdquo; intent.
The brothers, who are currently in Thailand and face an Interpol Blue Corner Notice, said they were unwilling to return to India without legal protection as they feared arrest.
Their plea stated, &ldquo;The applicant and his partners operate from Delhi and do not run the day-to-day operations. The day-to-day operations are managed by the on-ground/restaurant managers.&rdquo;
Senior advocates Sidharth Luthra and Tanvir Ahmed Mir appeared for the duo and argued that the brothers wanted to return but required interim protection so they could approach the Goa courts directly.
&ldquo;I am saying I want to come back to India, they want to arrest me. I am seeking relief to come back to this country and approach court in goa that does not prejudice them unless they don't want to come. It is unfortunate people passed away, but witch hunting is what i am concerned about,&rdquo; their counsel told the court.
Although police had earlier said that the Luthras left for Thailand within five hours of the fire, Saurabh claimed otherwise in his plea, stating he had already travelled abroad.
&ldquo;On December 6, the applicant travelled to Thailand for a business meeting in connection with his professional engagements and potential restaurant sites,&rdquo; senior advocate Sidharth Luthra told the court.
The plea also highlighted the demolition of their second club in Goa, calling it evidence of &ldquo;the vindictive nature of the actions of the authorities against the applicant.&rdquo;
The structure was razed after Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant ordered immediate demolition, citing illegal construction and the absence of safety measures.
Meanwhile, the Rohini Court in Delhi has asked the Goa government to file its response to the brothers&rsquo; transit anticipatory bail plea.
The matter is expected to be taken up again tomorrow.

Following the deadly Birch by Romeo Lane fire, Goa CM Pramod Sawant holds a meeting with officials and tourism stakeholders to enforce strict safety measures for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Goa CM Ensures Safety Post Nightclub Tragedy

Goa Nightclub Fire: CM's Safety Measures

Following the deadly Birch by Romeo Lane fire, Goa CM Pramod Sawant holds a meeting with officials and tourism stakeholders to enforce strict safety measures for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

In the wake of a nightclub fire that claimed 25 lives, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant held a high-level meeting on Wednesday with officials and tourism stakeholders to ensure strict safety measures ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Officials of the North and South Goa district administrations and police department were present in the meeting, which was also attended by state Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte.
The meeting was held against the backdrop of the December 6 fire tragedy at Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub at Arpora in North Goa in which 25 persons were killed, according to sources.
"The chief minister briefed (those present in the meeting) about various measures taken to ensure that such a tragedy does not occur again in the state," a senior officer, privy to the meeting, told PTI.
He said that the state government has issued various orders and also formed committees, including a high-level magisterial inquiry panel and a fire safety audit committee, after the incident at the nightclub.
"The chief minister has ordered all the departments to ensure that there is no laxity on their part, especially considering that Goa would be witnessing a large number of tourists for the Christmas and New Year festivities," the officer said.

Ajay Gupta, co-owner of Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, was detained in Delhi and is set to be brought to Goa for questioning in the fire that killed 25 people.

Ajay Gupta Interrogated in Goa Nightclub Fire Probe

Gupta Interrogated in Nightclub Fire Probe

Ajay Gupta, co-owner of Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, was detained in Delhi and is set to be brought to Goa for questioning in the fire that killed 25 people.

Ajay Gupta, one of the co-owners of Goa's 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub, said that he is "only a partner" as he was brought to Delhi's Anti Extortion and Kidnapping Cell of the Crime Branch on Wednesday in connection with the blaze that killed 25 people.
Gupta, wearing a mask and covering most of his face, made the brief remark while entering the Crime Branch office at Sunlight Colony.
Sources said he was questioned by Goa Police and it initiated formal procedures to apprehend him and seek a transit remand. The sources said that Gupta had been evading from investigators since the December 6 blaze in north Goa's Arpora area.
"A Look Out Circular (LOC) had been issued against him after Goa Police failed to find him in Delhi during their first search. He was later located at a private hospital in Lajpat Nagar, where he had reportedly admitted himself citing spine-related medical issues. After medical clearance, he was detained and brought to the Crime Branch office for further procedures," the source added.
He said that Gupta is likely to be placed under arrest once Goa Police completes the formalities for transit remand.
Goa Police has already arrested five staff members of the nightclub &mdash; chief general manager Rajiv Modak, general manager Vivek Singh, bar manager Rajiv Singhania, gate manager Riyanshu Thakur and employee Bharat Kohli &mdash; in connection with the tragedy.
Meanwhile, two owners of the nightclub, brothers Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, left India shortly after the incident. An Interpol Blue Corner Notice has been issued against them.
The source said that Gupta will face detailed questioning in Goa about the club's management, operational responsibilities and fire-safety compliance.

Ajay Gupta, one of the owners of Birch by Romeo Lane, will be flown to Goa for interrogation after a fire at the nightclub killed 25 people. Police have issued notices against other owners who fled abroad.

Nightclub Owner Detained in Delhi in Goa Fire Tragedy

Delhi Detains Nightclub Owner in Goa Fire

Ajay Gupta, one of the owners of Birch by Romeo Lane, will be flown to Goa for interrogation after a fire at the nightclub killed 25 people. Police have issued notices against other owners who fled abroad.

Ajay Gupta, one of the four owners of Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, who was detained in Delhi, will be brought to Goa on Wednesday for questioning in connection with a fire at the establishment that claimed 25 lives, a senior official said.
Earlier, a Look Out Circular (LOC) had been issued against Gupta after a Goa police team failed to find him at his Delhi residence.&nbsp;
"We later managed to detain him in Delhi," the official said, adding that Gupta would be placed under arrest after the completion of formalities to bring him to Goa.&nbsp;
"Gupta will be flown to Goa on Wednesday for interrogation," the official said.
Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, the two primary owners of the nightclub located at Arpora in Goa, had fled to Phuket in Thailand following the tragedy on the night of December 6.&nbsp;
An Interpol Blue Corner Notice has been issued against them. Besides, an LOC has been issued against Surinder Kumar Khosla, another owner of the nightclub who is a British citizen, according to police.
The police have so far arrested five persons - the nightclub&rsquo;s chief general manager Rajiv Modak, general manager Vivek Singh, bar manager Rajiv Singhania, gate manager Riyanshu Thakur and employee Bharat Kohli.
Twenty-five persons were killed in the fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub at Arpora in North Goa around midnight on December 6.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has directed authorities to demolish the illegal Romeo Lane shack in Vagator, owned by the fugitive Luthra brothers, who fled to Thailand hours after a nightclub fire killed 25 people.

Nightclub fire: Goa govt orders demolition of Vagator beach shack of Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has directed authorities to demolish the illegal Romeo Lane shack in Vagator, owned by the fugitive Luthra brothers, who fled to Thailand hours after a nightclub fire killed 25 people.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has ordered authorities to demolish the illegal 'Romeo Lane' beach shack at Vagator, owned by the fugitive owners of the fire-ravaged nightclub, after completing all formalities on Tuesday.
This shack is the third property owned by Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra.&nbsp;
They flew to Thailand just hours after a major fire killed 25 people at the 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub in Arpora around midnight on Saturday.
Interpol has issued a Blue Corner notice against Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, according to the Goa Chief Minister's Office.
A senior CMO official stated that CM Sawant has directed the North Goa district administration to complete all the formalities and demolish the beach shack at Vagator.
"This shack is illegally built on government land. It would be demolished on Tuesday. District administration has kept all the machinery ready," the official said.
After the Saturday night fire tragedy, the district administration sealed this beach shack, and another facility at Assagao in North Goa on Monday.&nbsp;

Goa Police has requested the CBI to issue an Interpol Blue Notice for Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, owners of the nightclub where a fire killed 25 people, after they fled to Thailand.

Nightclub fire case: Goa Police approaches CBI seeing Interpol Blue Notice against two owners

Goa Police has requested the CBI to issue an Interpol Blue Notice for Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, owners of the nightclub where a fire killed 25 people, after they fled to Thailand.

The Goa Police has approached the CBI for issuance of an Interpol Blue Notice against Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, the main accused and owners of the Goa nightclub where a massive blaze claimed 25 lives, after they fled the country, officials said Tuesday.&nbsp;
Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, the owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora where the incident happened on Saturday, are believed to have fled to Phuket, Thailand, hours after the tragedy, the Goa Police said on Monday.&nbsp;
The Interpol Blue Notice is issued to collect additional information about a person's identity, location or activities in relation to a criminal investigation. The agency is in touch with the Interpol regarding the request of the Goa Police to track the fugitives.&nbsp;
The Red Notice which calls for detention of the fugitive can only be issued after a charge sheet is filed and a Non Bailable Warrant is issued against the wanted person.&nbsp;
"Goa Police have taken further steps to coordinate with the Interpol Division of the CBI to apprehend both Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra at the earliest," a senior police officer had said.&nbsp;
A massive fire at the nightclub, some 25 kilometres away from Panaji, on late Saturday night killed 25 persons. The deceased comprised 20 employees of the nightclub and five tourists, including four from Delhi.&nbsp;
Five injured people were undergoing treatment at the government-run Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMCH).

Birch by Romeo Lane co-owner Saurabh Luthra expressed “profound grief” after 25 people died in a fire at the Goa nightclub, assuring full support to victims’ families amid probes revealing major safety lapses.

Goa nightclub fire: Owner Saurabh Luthra expresses grief, assures management support

Birch by Romeo Lane co-owner Saurabh Luthra expressed &ldquo;profound grief&rdquo; after 25 people died in a fire at the Goa nightclub, assuring full support to victims&rsquo; families amid probes revealing major safety lapses.

Saurabh Luthra, one of the owners of Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora in North Goa, in which 25 persons were killed in a devastating fire, on Monday took to Instagram to express grief and asserted that the management will extend every possible form of assistance, support and cooperation to the bereaved and affected individuals.
A massive fire at the nightclub, some 25 kilometres away from here, late Saturday night killed 25 persons. The deceased comprised 20 employees of the nightclub and five tourists, including four from Delhi.
Subsequent probed by several agencies have revealed multiple irregularities, including alleged absence of a fire department NOC and issuance of licence without proper documentation.
Saurabh Luthra, who has been named in the FIR related to the fire along with co-owner Gaurav Luthra, in his Instagram post, claimed the management expresses "profound grief" and is "deeply shaken" by the tragic loss of lives resulting from the unfortunate incident at Birch.
"In the hour of irreparable sorrow and overwhelming distress, the management stands in unwavering solidarity with the families of the deceased as well as those injured, and conveys its heartfelt condolences with utmost sincerity," Saurabh Luthra said in the social media post.
"The management further affirms that it shall extend every possible form of assistance, support and cooperation to the bereaved and affected individuals, as they navigate through this period of immense anguish and adversity," he added.
The club, which stands in the backwater of Arpora river, allegedly did not possess a fire department NOC, and small doors coupled with the narrow bridge leading to it made it difficult for the people to escape, fire officials had said after the inferno.
While the club's chief general manager Rajiv Modak, general manager Vivek Singh, bar manager Rajiv Singhania and gate manager Riyanshu Thakur were arrested, Chief Minister Pamod Sawant on Sunday said a police team had left for Delhi to nab the Luthras.

A devastating fire at a North Goa nightclub killed 25 people, including tourists and staff, exposing major safety violations, administrative lapses, and triggering a political storm as investigations and arrests gather pace.

25 killed in Goa nightclub blaze; 4 arrested, 3 officials suspended

A devastating fire at a North Goa nightclub killed 25 people, including tourists and staff, exposing major safety violations, administrative lapses, and triggering a political storm as investigations and arrests gather pace.

A nightclub teeming with revellers in North Goa turned into a death trap around midnight as a massive fire tore through it, claiming 25 lives, including five tourists, and bringing to the fore illegalities along with the laxity of government officials in enforcing rules.
Fireworks emerged as the likely cause of the blaze at 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub at Arpora, 25 km from Panaji, officials said, adding that the facility allegedly did not possess even a fire department NOC.
At least six people were injured in the incident. Five of them are undergoing treatment at hospitals.
The deceased included 20 employees of the nightclub and five tourists, including four from Delhi.
As per initial information, the nightclub had not adhered to fire safety norms, CM Pramod Sawant said.
Most of the deaths were caused by suffocation, as the victims got trapped on the ground floor and in the kitchen, said a fire brigade official.
Narrow lanes blocked access of fire brigade vehicles, and the water tankers had to be parked about 400 metres away from the spot. This made controlling the blaze a challenging task, a senior officer from the Fire and Emergency Services told PTI.
Small doors coupled with the narrow bridge leading to it made it difficult for the people to escape, fire brigade officials said.
The club's chief general manager, Rajiv Modak, general manager Vivek Singh, bar manager Rajiv Singhania, and gate manager Riyanshu Thakur were arrested by the police, Sawant said.
An FIR was registered against the owners, Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, and the event organisers.
Three senior officials of the Goa government, including the then Director of Panchayat, were suspended for their role in allowing the nightclub to start operations in 2023, a senior officer said.
Preliminary inquiry revealed that "electric firecrackers" were set off inside, which started the blaze at 11.45 pm on Saturday, Sawant said, adding that he had directed Chief Secretary V Candavelou and DGP Alok Kumar to identify and act against the government officials who allowed the club to operate even though it violated safety rules.
The government also formed a probe panel comprising the South Goa Collector, Deputy Director of Fire and Emergency Services, and the Director of Forensic Laboratory. It has been asked to submit its report within a week.
An ex-gratia of Rs five lakh for the nearest kin of each deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured would be paid from the State Disaster Management Authority Funds, the chief minister said.
The 20 staff members who died in the blaze were originally from Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Assam, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. Four among them were Nepalese nationals, as per a list released by the state government.
Arrangements would be made to take the mortal remains of the deceased to their native places, Sawant added.
The suspended officials are identified as Siddhi Tushar Harlankar, who was then Director of Panchayat, Dr Shamila Monteiro, who was then Member Secretary of the Goa State Pollution Control Board, and Raghuvir Bagkar, then Secretary of Village Panchayat Arpora-Nagoa.
They are held responsible for giving permission to 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub at Arpora to start its operations in 2023, a senior officer said.
President Droupadi Murmu, PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, among others, expressed grief over the tragedy.
While the state police initially said the blaze occurred due to a cylinder blast, some eyewitnesses claimed the fire started on the club's first floor where tourists were dancing.
Riya, a tourist from Delhi who survived the fire, claimed that firecrackers burst all around when dancers were performing, which could have triggered the fire. &ldquo;There was a stampede-like situation," she said.
At least 100 people were on the dance floor, and in an attempt to escape, some of them ran downstairs to the kitchen, where they got trapped with the staff, Fatima Shaikh, a tourist from Hyderabad, told PTI.
"There was a sudden commotion as the flames started erupting. We rushed out of the club only to see that the entire structure was up in flames," she said, adding that the nightclub was jam-packed as it was the weekend.
In no time, the entire club was engulfed in flames. &ldquo;There was a temporary construction made up of palm leaves which easily caught fire,&rdquo; said Shaikh.
Arpora-Nagoa panchayat sarpanch Roshan Redkar was questioned by the police.
He said there was a dispute between the two owners of the club, and they had filed a complaint against each other with the panchayat.
"We had inspected the premises and found that they did not have the permission to construct the club. The panchayat had issued a demolition notice, which was stayed by officials of the Directorate of Panchayats," Redkar claimed.
Distraught relatives and friends of the victims gathered outside the morgue of the Goa Medical College and Hospital, anxiously awaiting information about their loved ones.
Goa BJP MLA Michael Lobo claimed the licence to the nightclub was issued without any documentation by the local panchayat.
The Opposition targeted the BJP government in the state over the tragedy.
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, said he was deeply pained by the incident. "This is not just an accident; it is a criminal failure of safety and governance," he said on X.
The AAP stated the Sawant government has lost the "moral right" to stay in power.
The Congress also demanded Sawant's resignation, with its Goa desk in-charge Manikrao Thakare claiming that the club had not obtained the NOC from the fire department, nor did it have permission from the Excise Department to sell liquor.
Sawant said the government has undertaken measures to prevent such incidents, and an audit of clubs operating without permission and places with the potential of high footfall will be carried out.

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