NATIONAL: Goa Nightclub Row: Gupta Says He Was Only a Sleeping Partner
Police detained Ajay Gupta, co-owner of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Goa, on Tuesday in Delhi.
He had fled to a hospital there using a driver’s Innova with a Haryana plate to dodge scrutiny.
Gupta claims he served only as a sleeping partner to operators Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, denying knowledge of safety lapses.
Authorities plan to present him in court soon for transit remand to Goa.
Property records confirm his stake in the venue despite his limited role assertions.
This marks the sixth detention linked to the December 7 blaze that killed 25 people.
Luthra Brothers Evade Capture
Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra bolted to Phuket, Thailand, hours after the fire via an early morning flight from Delhi.
Interpol issued a Blue Corner Notice at CBI’s request to track their whereabouts and activities. The notice aids global location without mandating arrest.
A Delhi court denied their anticipatory bail plea, rejecting claims of routine business travel.
Indian agencies coordinate with Thai officials for quick deportation, bypassing full extradition.
The brothers face accusations of fire safety violations and fleeing probes.
Coordinated Raids Intensify
Delhi and Goa Police launched joint operations, raiding Luthra properties and residences.
Earlier arrests include the club’s managers and staff for negligence in fire precautions, like missing exits.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant ordered a high-level inquiry into official lapses.
- No fire safety equipment during the risky fire show
- Unauthorized operations without licenses
- Probe committee to report within a week on violations
Families grieve as investigations uncover deeper regulatory failure