In an exclusive interview with CNBC-TV18, Arpora sarpanch Roshan Redkar stated that the nightclub lacked permission from the village panchayat to operate and had been running illegally for almost a year.
“The so-called ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ property was involved in a land dispute. The panchayat had issued demolition orders, and the nightclub’s operations were never sanctioned,” the sarpanch noted, mentioning that landowners, including individuals with the surnames Khosla and Luthra, had lodged multiple complaints, asserting ties to a sister entity of the Romeo Lane brand.
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The conflict between the landowners and the nightclub operators had been persistent, with numerous submissions to the panchayat claiming unauthorized construction and commercial activities. “We had made it clear that the establishment did not possess permission. The dispute was ongoing, and directives had been issued. Yet, they continued their operations,” the sarpanch told CNBC-TV18.
Despite lacking local approval, the nightclub allegedly obtained an NOC from the fire department, a decision now facing intense scrutiny. A prominent lawyer based in Arpora informed CNBC-TV18 that the NOC “failed to adhere to essential safety regulations,” especially highlighting an illegally constructed kitchen on the mezzanine level.
“An NOC should not have been granted for a kitchen lacking a fire escape. This situation is illegal. One of the reasons staff could not evacuate was due to the obstructed, non-compliant layout. There was also an unresolved case against the establishment,” the lawyer stated.
Meanwhile, Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced that an FIR has been filed against the nightclub’s owner and general manager. In a post on X, Sawant remarked, “I am closely monitoring the situation following the tragic fire incident in Arpora, where 25 lives have been lost and six individuals have sustained injuries.” He assured that all injured parties are currently stable and receiving medical care.
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Sawant indicated that this incident represents the first of its magnitude in Goa’s nightlife and declared a magisterial inquiry to ascertain the cause, accountability, and regulatory failures that led to the tragedy.
Preliminary reports suggest that the fire ignited on the first floor and spread rapidly. Congestion, narrow exits, and blocked paths allegedly hindered partygoers’ escape. “Some of them rushed to the ground floor and became trapped there,” the chief minister revealed.
First Published: Dec 7, 2025 12:38 PM IST
