- By Deeksha Gour
- Wed, 10 Dec 2025 10:32 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Bengaluru News: Days after a devastating nightclub fire in Goa on December 7 claimed 25 lives, concerns over safety at pubs and bars have resurfaced across major cities. With Bengaluru preparing for heavy festive footfall, a ground assessment along Church Street has revealed several shortcomings in emergency preparedness.
Church Street, one of the city’s busiest nightlife zones, is expected to witness large crowds during Christmas and New Year. The area houses several pubs and bars within a narrow stretch, raising questions about evacuation readiness in case of an incident.
Police and Civic Authorities Step In
Bengaluru Police have called an inter-departmental meeting on December 10 to discuss safety protocols for the festive period.
Inspectors have been instructed to carry out immediate visits to pubs and clubs in their areas and file detailed safety reports.
The police will also coordinate with the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), BESCOM and the Fire and Emergency Services Department to issue clear guidelines for establishments.
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Goa Fire Investigation
Meanwhile, the investigation into the Goa fire intensified as nightclub co-owner Ajay Gupta was arrested after allegedly attempting to avoid police by faking a spinal injury. According to a NDTV report, Gupta checked himself into a Delhi hospital in an effort to delay arrest but was detained after coordinated action by the Delhi Crime Branch and Goa Police.
Gupta, one of the partners of Birch by Romeo Lane along with brothers Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, was produced before a Saket court on Wednesday. He faces charges related to culpable homicide not amounting to murder and negligence, amid allegations of major safety and regulatory violations at the club.
Authorities have also demolished part of Romeo Lane’s Vagator restaurant, owned by the Luthra brothers. GST records confirm Gupta’s partnership in the nightclub despite his claims of being uninvolved in operations.
