Tv10punjab
National Desk
8 December
A horrific fire accident late last night claimed the lives of 25 people and left 6 others seriously injured. Among the dead were 4 tourists and 14 staff members, while the identification of the remaining victims is still underway. The incident has raised strong questions about administrative negligence and illegal construction activities.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has ordered a magistrate inquiry and promised strict action against all responsible. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Home Minister Amit Shah expressed deep grief. PM Modi announced financial assistance of ₹2 lakh each for the families of the deceased and ₹50,000 for the injured.
Police have arrested the club’s Chief General Manager Rajeev Modak, General Manager Vivek Singh, Bar Manager Rajeev Singhania, and Gate Manager Riyanshu Thakur. An FIR has also been filed against owners Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra. The former village sarpanch Roshan Redkar, who issued the trade licence in 2013, has also been detained.
Initial investigation revealed that the fire started at 11:45 pm due to electric fireworks during a dance performance. Eyewitnesses said the club was overcrowded, exit routes were blocked, and the palm-leaf roof helped the fire spread rapidly. Narrow lanes delayed fire brigade access, and most deaths occurred due to suffocation on the lower floor. A three-member committee will submit a detailed report within a week.