Goa Government Empowers Enforcement Committee After Tragic Nightclub Fire
The Goa government has significantly enhanced the authority of its Joint Enforcement and Monitoring Committee. This decisive action follows the devastating fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Panaji. The committee now possesses stronger powers to ensure tourism establishments comply with essential safety regulations.
Expanded Powers for Immediate Action
Formed on December 9 in response to the tragedy, the committee can now seal any tourism-related unit operating without valid mandatory clearances. These clearances include the crucial fire safety No Objection Certificate (NOC), excise licenses, and trade licenses. The team holds the power to order the immediate suspension of all commercial operations at such non-compliant establishments.
The committee also received authority for temporary de-sealing. This provision allows sealed premises to be opened for specific, limited purposes. These purposes include the removal of perishable or hazardous materials, the rectification of identified deficiencies, or to facilitate official inspections. All such activities must occur under the strict supervision of the local mamlatdar and Goa police.
"Upon completion of such purpose as mentioned, the premises shall be re-sealed forthwith," stated Manthan Naik, Under Secretary for Home. He emphasized that no commercial operations are permitted during this temporary period. The suspension of operations remains under the committee's strict oversight through the mamlatdar and the Police Inspector of the concerned area.
Statewide Inspections Yield Results
Jolted into action by the nightclub fire, the government constituted this joint committee to carry out inspections across Goa. The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) issued an urgent advisory. It directed all nightclubs, restaurants, bars, event venues, and similar establishments to strictly comply with fire, electrical, and structural safety norms.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant informed legislators on Friday about the inspection outcomes. Authorities inspected 86 tourism establishments across the state following the incident. Out of these, 22 were sealed for lacking proper documentation. Furthermore, a demolition order was issued for one of the sealed nightclubs, indicating severe violations.
Path to Reopening and Political Demands
Sealed nightclubs face a stringent process to resume operations. They can only reopen with the permission of the additional collector of their respective district. Final de-sealing is subject to a verification of compliance and a positive recommendation from the Joint Enforcement and Monitoring Committee. Establishments also have a provision to appeal before the district collector.
The opposition has raised strong demands in the aftermath. They called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the incident. The opposition also demanded action against ministers and officials involved. Accusing the government of secrecy, they claimed the magisterial inquiry report was being withheld to shield the names of those responsible.
This enhanced regulatory push underscores Goa's commitment to tourist safety. The government aims to prevent future tragedies through rigorous enforcement and monitoring of all tourism-related businesses.
