Tragic Nightclub Fire in Goa Claims 25 Lives: Leaders Call for Accountability
Leaders Mourn Loss in Goa Nightclub Fire
New Delhi: On Sunday, leaders from various political parties expressed their sorrow over the tragic nightclub fire in Goa that resulted in 25 fatalities. The Congress party has called for a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed their heartfelt condolences and expressed their sadness over the loss of life, wishing for a swift recovery for the injured.
In a message shared on X, President Murmu stated, "I am deeply saddened by the tragic fire incident in North Goa that has taken precious lives. My thoughts are with the bereaved families, and I pray for the quick recovery of the injured."
Prime Minister Modi described the fire in Arpora, Goa, as "deeply saddening," adding, "My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I hope for the speedy recovery of the injured." He also mentioned that he had spoken with Goa's Chief Minister Pramod Sawant regarding the situation, assuring that the state government is providing necessary assistance.
Vice President C P Radhakrishnan also expressed his condolences, stating, "I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the tragic fire incident at Arpora, Goa. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families affected by this tragedy."
Union Home Minister Amit Shah extended his sympathies to the families of the victims and noted that local authorities are conducting rescue and relief operations.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his sorrow, labeling the incident as an avoidable tragedy and calling for a thorough investigation to ensure accountability and adherence to fire safety regulations.
Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, emphasized that this incident reflects a failure in safety and governance, demanding a transparent investigation to hold those responsible accountable.
The nightclub in North Goa became a deadly trap after a massive fire broke out shortly after midnight, resulting in 25 deaths and injuring six others. This incident has raised serious concerns regarding illegal operations and violations of safety protocols.
While police suggested that a cylinder explosion may have ignited the fire, a survivor claimed that fireworks were set off during a performance, which could have triggered the blaze.
Most victims succumbed to suffocation as they were trapped on the ground floor of the 'Birch by Romeo Lane' nightclub, located 25 km from Panaji, according to fire officials.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant vowed to take action against officials who permitted the club to operate despite safety violations, and an FIR has been filed against the owners. A village official indicated that the establishment itself was illegal.
Among the deceased were four tourists and 14 staff members, while the identities of the remaining seven victims are still being determined.
Congress General Secretary K C Venugopal called for accountability regarding the tragic incident, stating that negligence in enforcing fire safety regulations led to this disaster. He urged for a thorough investigation to identify those responsible.
Senior Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi Marlena questioned who was responsible for creating the "death trap" that led to the loss of 25 lives, demanding accountability from local officials.
Trinamool Congress leaders also expressed their condolences, with Rajya Sabha Deputy Leader Sagarika Ghose criticizing the governance model in Goa, stating, "This is yet another man-made tragedy. No state exemplifies the collapse of the so-called double-engine model more than Goa."