New Delhi, Dec 7 (UNI) Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has expressed anguish over the devastating fire at a nightclub in Arpora, Goa, that has claimed the lives of at least 23 people.
In a statement posted on Sunday morning, she demanded a “thorough investigation” and “full accountability” for the tragedy, which officials suspect may have been worsened by a lack of fire safety compliance.
The massive blaze, which broke out late Saturday night at the ‘Birch by Romeo Lane’ nightclub in North Goa, has shocked the coastal state during its peak tourist season.
Initial reports suggest a cylinder blast was the cause, and most of the victims were staff members, many of whom died from suffocation after being trapped.
In a post on social media, Gandhi offered her heartfelt condolences to the affected families and raised serious questions about safety standards. “My heart goes out to the families and loved ones of the 23 souls lost in the tragic fire at Arpora, Goa. This is an unimaginable loss. I pray for the speedy recovery of all those injured,” she stated.
The Congress leader’s focus quickly shifted to systemic failures, echoing concerns already voiced by local authorities. “This tragedy demands a thorough investigation, full accountability, and measures to ensure that every safety norm is upheld to avoid such incidents in the future,” she added, highlighting the urgency of preventing similar disasters.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, who visited the site, has already indicated that preliminary findings suggest serious violations of safety regulations.
“As per initial information, the nightclub had not abided by the fire safety norms,” CM Sawant reportedly told reporters, calling the incident “unfortunate.”
He promised stringent action, saying, “We will take action against the club management and also against the officials who allowed it to operate despite flouting safety norms.
