Police detain Ajay Gupta, co owner of Goa nightclub where massive fire killed 25
Police have detained Ajay Gupta, the co owner of the Goa nightclub where a massive fire killed 25 people. Investigators are now probing suspected safety violations, licensing lapses and negligence that may have contributed to the tragedy.
Ajay Gupta, one of the co owners of the North Goa nightclub that was engulfed in a deadly fire killing 25 people, has been detained by police as part of the ongoing investigation. The blaze, believed to have been triggered by a suspected gas cylinder explosion, spread rapidly inside the packed venue and resulted in one of the worst fire accidents the state has witnessed in recent years.
Officials confirmed that Gupta was taken into custody for questioning regarding operational practices at the club. Investigators are focusing on whether the establishment had valid safety clearances, functioning fire exits, proper storage of gas cylinders and adherence to crowd management norms. Eyewitnesses earlier reported that portions of the club had become dead ends during the evacuation, complicating rescue efforts.
Authorities are also reviewing past complaints filed with local bodies and coastal zone authorities about the structure. Documents relating to building permissions, modifications, emergency equipment and staff training have been seized for examination. Police said that negligence, if proven, could lead to serious charges.
Families of the victims have demanded strong action against those responsible for the lapses that allowed such a high casualty event. Survivors have recounted scenes of panic and confusion as they struggled to find exits through dense smoke and rapidly spreading flames.
The Goa government has ordered a comprehensive inquiry and assured strict enforcement of accountability. More detentions and arrests are expected as the investigation progresses and forensic teams complete their assessments.
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