Summary: A massive fire in Arpora, Goa, led to a legal showdown between developers and the state. Allegations of illegal construction and carelessness are at the heart of the case.
On the night of December 6-7, 2025, a tragic fire at "Birch by Romeo Lane," a commercial establishment in Arpora, Bardez, Goa, claimed 25 lives. This incident triggered a legal battle involving multiple parties, including the State of Goa and local developers.
Pradeep P. Ghadi Amonkar and Sunil D. Divker, stakeholders in local resorts, filed a petition on December 11, 2025, claiming violations of basic rights. They argued that illegal construction and carelessness by authorities contributed to the tragedy.
The State of Goa, along with various local authorities, was named as those being accused. The petitioners accused them of failing to act against illegal buildings by the 10th respondent, Surinder Kumar Khosla, a UK national.
The case was heard by Judges Suman Shyam and Amit S. Jamsandekar. On December 15, 2025, the court noted the private nature of the dispute but took serious note of the fire incident, leading to a Suo Moto Public Interest Litigation (PIL).
Pradeep P. Ghadi Amonkar and Sunil D. Divker alleged violations of multiple laws, including the Goa Land and Development and Building Construction Regulations, 2010. They argued that illegal buildings by the 10th respondent were ignored by authorities.
The State, represented by Advocate General Mr. Devidas Pangam, argued that Pradeep P. Ghadi Amonkar and Sunil D. Divker hid important facts and had ongoing personal disputes with the 10th respondent. They claimed the petition was an attempt to avoid responsibilities.
On February 25, 2026, the court dismissed the petition, citing hidden facts and the private nature of the dispute. The court emphasized that larger public issues were being addressed in the ongoing PIL.
The court dismissed the petition due to hidden facts and because it was a private dispute. The court is focusing on broader public issues in the ongoing investigation.
"The State/Authorities have taken a serious note of the incident... effective steps are being taken as ordered and directed by the Court." - Justices Amit S. Jamsandekar and Suman Shyam
This case highlights the importance of openness and responsibility in legal proceedings, especially when public safety is at risk.
