A detailed magisterial inquiry report into the devastating fire at Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, which claimed 25 lives on December 6, has submitted a comprehensive set of 60 recommendations to the Goa state government. The report aims to outline the necessary actions and systemic steps required to prevent such tragedies in the future.
In-Depth Scrutiny Leads to Fortnight-Long Probe
The inquiry committee, headed by North Goa District Collector Ankit Yadav, was initially given one week to complete its investigation. However, due to the extensive nature of the evidence, including the scrutiny of numerous documents and the recording of multiple statements, the panel took a fortnight to finalize its findings. The final report is a substantial document, running into 108 pages, supported by over 500 pages of annexures and witness statements.
The committee was empowered to summon individuals and call for official records to fulfill its mandate. Its terms of reference were broad, requiring it to examine the sequence of events leading to the blaze, verify compliance with all statutory licenses, determine lapses, fix accountability on responsible agencies and departments, and finally, recommend preventive and corrective measures.
Report Details Lapses and Prescribes Departmental Action
A senior government officer revealed that the inquiry report meticulously details the specific lapses identified and the consequent actions needed against each concerned department. The committee, which included IPS officer and South Goa SP Tikam Singh Verma, director of forensic sciences Ashutosh Apte, and deputy director of fire services Rajendra Haldankar, has provided a roadmap for the administration.
The report has now been submitted to the state government for necessary action. A senior official confirmed that Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, the Chief Secretary, and the Director General of Police (DGP) will review the findings next week. Based on their review, the government will initiate appropriate steps, which may include suspensions of officials found culpable.
Immediate Fallout and Path Forward
The state government had already taken swift initial action a day after the tragedy. On December 7, it suspended three officials: Siddhi Harlankar (then director of panchayats), Shamila Monteiro (then member secretary of the Goa Pollution Control Board), and Raghuvir D Bagkar (secretary of Arpora-Nagoa panchayat).
The submission of the magisterial report marks a critical next phase. The 60 recommendations are expected to form the backbone of a revised fire safety and regulatory framework for the state, particularly for high-occupancy venues like nightclubs and restaurants. The government's response to these recommendations will be closely watched as a measure of its commitment to public safety and accountability.
