Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Dec 25: The magisterial inquiry committee set up to investigate the fatal fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub has submitted its findings to the state government, according to sources. The report reportedly identifies the causes of the blaze and pins responsibility on officials who permitted the club to function despite serious shortcomings in safety and regulatory compliance.

The fire, which broke out in the first week of December, led to the deaths of 25 people — 20 employees of the nightclub and five tourists — making it one of the most tragic incidents in the state’s recent history.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the government constituted a magisterial inquiry committee on December 8 under the leadership of the North Goa District Collector. The panel was asked to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding the fire and submit its report within a week. After a detailed investigation, the committee completed its work and submitted the report on December 23.

The findings have been handed over to the state’s chief secretary. As part of its investigation, the committee examined the origin of the fire, reviewed the licences and permissions granted to the establishment, and assessed whether mandatory norms and safety standards were followed. It also evaluated the role of different departments and agencies involved in granting approvals, while recommending steps to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Sources said the panel recorded statements from several officials and other concerned individuals during the inquiry. The report is believed to point to serious lapses in the approval process, noting that permissions were granted despite evident deficiencies. A significant portion of the responsibility has reportedly been attributed to the local panchayat, though other authorities have also been held accountable.

With the submission of the report, attention has now shifted to the state government, as pressure mounts for decisive action against those found responsible for the lapses that led to the deadly incident.