Luthra Brothers Face Consequences as Second Goa Club Faces Demolition Following Deadly Fire Tragedy

The Luthra brothers, owners of 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub where a devastating fire claimed 25 lives in Goa's Arpora, will face another setback as authorities prepare to demolish their beach shack. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed that bulldozers will demolish 'Romeo Lane' in Vagator after 3 pm, according to PTI.

Sources from the Chief Minister's office informed NDTV that the restaurant, allegedly constructed on government property, has already been sealed pending demolition.

Brothers Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra departed for Thailand merely three hours following the tragic fire incident. They currently face serious charges including culpable homicide not amounting to murder and conspiracy.

As of now, neither brother has established contact with law enforcement. NDTV has obtained photographic evidence showing Gaurav Luthra at a Thai airport.

Their absence was discovered during the initial police investigation. When authorities visited their Delhi residence, they learned the pair had already left India, boarding an IndiGo flight to Phuket. Police interpret this as a deliberate attempt to evade legal consequences.

The Chief Minister's office has confirmed that Interpol issued a Blue Corner Notice for the brothers, requesting police forces across member nations to provide additional information regarding their whereabouts and activities related to the criminal investigation.

The Luthra brothers began their hospitality career in 2016 with 'Mama's Buoi', a nightclub in Delhi's Civil Lines area that became popular among university students. Following this successful venture, they expanded with 'Dramebaaz', a fast food establishment, and subsequently launched 'Romeo Lane', a nightclub chain that significantly enhanced their reputation.

Later, they opened 'Birch By Romeo Lane' in Goa, marketing it on Instagram as the first 'island club'.

The burnt remains of 'Birch by Romeo Lane' reveal significant safety issues. Pre-fire photographs show extensive bamboo decorations, particularly on the ceiling, which accelerated the fire's spread. The venue's design proved catastrophic - situated in the middle of a small lake with only a narrow pathway serving as both entrance and exit, fire engines could not approach when the blaze erupted.

Firefighters reported having to park their vehicles approximately 400 meters from the club, severely complicating rescue efforts and likely increasing the death toll.

Investigators discovered the nightclub operated without fire safety clearance. More alarmingly, the venue, which often accommodated over 100 guests, had neither functional fire extinguishers nor safety alarm systems.