Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Dec 24: A Goa court on Tuesday granted bail to two managers of the ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub, who were arrested in connection with the devastating fire that claimed 25 lives earlier this month, while rejecting the bail plea of a third accused.

District Judge D V Patkar allowed the bail applications of Rajveer Singhania and Priyanshu Thakur, who served as bar manager and gate manager respectively at the club, but denied relief to Vivek Singh. All three were arrested on December 7, a day after the deadly blaze broke out at the nightclub in Arpora village of North Goa, reported.

Advocate Vinayak Parab, appearing for Singhania and Thakur, said the court imposed stringent conditions while granting bail. The accused have been directed not to directly or indirectly induce, threaten or influence any witnesses or individuals connected with the case.

The court further barred the two from leaving the country without prior written permission and instructed them to fully cooperate with the investigation. They have also been asked to remain available for questioning by the investigating officer whenever required.

As per the bail order, the duo must report to the investigating officer or the Anjuna police station once every month, preferably on the first Wednesday, until the chargesheet or final report is filed.

The tragic fire, which erupted around midnight on December 6, claimed the lives of 20 staff members and five tourists. So far, eight persons have been arrested in the case, including the club’s co-owners Gaurav Luthra and his brother Saurabh, who were deported from Thailand.