India is preparing to seek the return of nightclub owners Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, who fled to Thailand just hours after a massive fire killed 25 people at their Goa establishment, Birch by Romeo Lane, in Arpora. Authorities say the brothers may face charges of negligence and murder, but bringing them back will require invoking India’s extradition treaty with Thailand.
Swift Escape Raises Questions
The Luthra brothers boarded IndiGo flight 6E 1073 to Phuket at 5:30 am on Monday—barely a few hours after the midnight blaze ripped through their popular waterfront club. Their departure came to light once a massive manhunt began following the registration of the FIR.
A senior official said that their rapid escape “clearly shows an intent to evade the investigation.” Police teams were immediately dispatched to their known addresses in Delhi, but the duo had already left the country.
Cause of Fire and Safety Lapses
According to investigators, fireworks are emerging as the likely trigger of the blaze. Fire officials reported that the club had small exit doors and was connected to the mainland only through a narrow bridge, severely hampering evacuation efforts as the flames spread.
The tragedy unfolded at the club located on the backwaters of the Arpora river, about 25 km from Panaji.
Interstate Presence of Luthra Businesses
The Luthra brothers are well-known in India’s nightlife industry. After the success of their first Delhi venue, Mama’s Buoi, they expanded the Romeo Lane chain to Goa, Delhi and Haryana’s Yamuna Nagar.
Efforts to Bring Them Back
A lookout circular has been issued against the brothers. Authorities are now coordinating with the CBI and Interpol to initiate the process of extradition from Thailand under the existing bilateral treaty.
Officials say India can legally try the Luthras once they are brought back, but the next steps depend on diplomatic procedures and cooperation from Thailand.