Goa Nightclub Fire: Court Extends Ajay Gupta's Police Remand Following Tragic Incident

A Goa court has extended the police remand of Ajay Gupta, co-owner of Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, by four days after a fire killed 25 people. Gupta was arrested on December 10 and has filed a bail application.

A Goa court has extended Ajay Gupta's police remand by four days. Gupta, co-owner of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub, was arrested on December 10 in New Delhi. The nightclub experienced a tragic fire on December 6, resulting in 25 deaths. Initially, a Mapusa court had placed Gupta in police custody for seven days.

Gupta's advocate, Rohan Desai, informed reporters that his client was presented before the lower court as his initial remand period was ending. The court decided to extend his custody by four more days. During this time, Gupta complained of back pain and was subsequently examined by a specialised doctor at Goa Medical College and Hospital.

Fire Incident and Arrests

The fire at the nightclub in Arpora, North Goa, occurred around midnight on December 6. It claimed the lives of 25 individuals, including 20 staff members and five tourists. In connection with the incident, eight people have been arrested so far. This includes Gupta and two other owners, Gaurav Luthra and Saurabh Luthra, who were deported from Thailand.

Among the arrested are five staff members: Rajiv Modak, Corporate General Manager; Priyanshu Thakur, Gate Manager; Rajveer Singhania, Bar Manager; Vivek Singh, General Manager; and Bharat Karan Singh Kohli, an employee. A Look Out Circular has been issued for Surinder Kumar Khosla, another owner who holds British citizenship.

Legal Proceedings and Health Concerns

Gupta has filed a bail application amid these proceedings. His health concerns were addressed when the court ordered a medical examination due to his complaint of back pain. Following the examination, he was permitted to use a mattress while in custody.

The tragic incident has led to significant legal actions against those involved with the nightclub. The authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fire as they proceed with legal measures against those arrested.

With inputs from PTI