Supreme Court Orders Luthra Brothers to Surrender in Goa Nightclub Fire Case

New Delhi, August 31: The Supreme Court has directed the Luthra brothers to surrender within two weeks in connection with the tragic fire incident at the ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub in Arpora, Goa. This incident, which occurred in December 2025, resulted in the deaths of 25 individuals.

On Monday, the Supreme Court upheld the Bombay High Court’s decision to revoke the bail of the nightclub’s three owners: Saurabh Luthra, Gaurav Luthra, and Ajay Gupta. Justices Dipankar Dutta and Shil Nagoo dismissed the appeals filed by the trio and instructed them to present themselves before the relevant authorities within two weeks.

The Supreme Court also urged the trial court to expedite the process of framing charges in this case. Previously, the additional sessions court in Mapusa, Goa, had granted bail to the three accused. Ajay Gupta was granted bail on March 23, while Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra received theirs on April 1. The Goa government challenged this decision in the Bombay High Court, which accepted the state’s appeal on August 19 and revoked their bail.

The case pertains to the fire that broke out on the night of December 6, 2025, at the nightclub in Northern Goa, claiming 25 lives. Police investigations revealed that the club lacked valid safety approvals and adequate fire-fighting equipment. Reports indicated that an indoor fire show was conducted without necessary safety measures, leading to the blaze. Furthermore, it was alleged that the restaurant operated without a valid trade license.

Hours after the fire, it was reported that Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra fled to Thailand. They were later deported back to India, where Goa police arrested them. The accused face multiple charges under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including involuntary manslaughter, acts endangering life, and negligence related to fire safety. Other partners, managers, event organizers, and staff of the club have also been implicated in the case.

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