Police in Goa have revealed that the Luthra brothers, owners of the upscale nightclub where a devastating fire claimed 25 lives, left India for Thailand just hours after the blaze broke out. The revelation has intensified scrutiny over the club’s safety violations and raised questions about attempts to evade responsibility.
Investigators say the brothers boarded an international flight early the next morning, even as rescue teams were still searching through the charred remains of the building. Police sources indicate that both men are now considered “persons of interest” in the ongoing probe, which is examining allegations of illegal construction, overcrowding, locked exits, and the use of flammable interior materials.
Preliminary findings suggest that the fire may have been triggered by an electrical short-circuit near the stage area, though officials emphasize that full forensic reports are pending. Survivors have told authorities that the club’s emergency exits were inaccessible, leading to a deadly stampede when smoke rapidly filled the venue. Videos circulating on social media show panicked crowds struggling to escape as the blaze spread.
Goa police have issued lookout circulars and are working with central agencies to determine the exact travel route the brothers used, as well as potential assets or associates abroad. An extradition request is under consideration, depending on the legal findings of the investigation.
The tragedy has sparked public outrage across Goa, with residents and activists accusing local officials of negligence in enforcing fire safety regulations in popular tourist establishments. Several municipal officers are expected to face questioning over inspection lapses.
Authorities say charges including culpable homicide, negligence, and violations of fire and building codes are being examined. Families of the victims held vigils demanding swift justice and accountability, arguing that the deaths were preventable and resulted from systemic failures.
As the investigation deepens, the Goa government has promised a full overhaul of nightlife safety standards, vowing that no responsible party — local or abroad — will be spared from prosecution.