Goa Opposition Intensifies Pressure Over Deadly Fire, Calls for CBI Probe
The opposition in Goa launched a fierce attack on the state government this Friday. They demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the tragic Birch by Romeo Lane fire. This devastating incident claimed 25 lives back in December.
Demands for Accountability and Report Release
Opposition members rushed to the well of the legislative assembly. They insisted the government must fix clear political accountability for the disaster. A key demand was the immediate public release of the magisterial inquiry report into the fire.
Leader of the Opposition, Yuri Alemao, led the charge. He pointed to a critical moment from August 6th. On that day, members had raised concerns about Birch. The Chief Minister had noted the issue. Alemao argued forcefully that if the government had acted then, precious lives could have been saved.
"Why did you not sack your minister, as he was equally responsible? We demand a CBI inquiry into the matter. We want govt to sack the MLAs and minister in the case. You need to fix political accountability," Alemao stated in the House.
Chief Minister's Response and Government Actions
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant addressed the assembly. He assured members that the government would act against all individuals involved in granting permissions for Birch in Arpora. He also promised action against businesses operating illegally on tenanted land.
Regarding the magisterial report, Sawant indicated a decision on its release would follow the police filing a chargesheet in the case.
"There cannot be political accountability fixed, but after the inquiry, we will act against everyone," the Chief Minister responded to the opposition's demands.
Scrutiny of Land Use and Widespread Inspections
The opposition highlighted a major irregularity. They questioned how Birch was permitted commercial activities on tenanted land. Such land use for commercial purposes is typically not allowed.
CM Sawant detailed the government's recent crackdown. Inspections covered 47 nightclubs in North Goa, resulting in 17 being sealed. In South Goa, 39 clubs were inspected, with 5 sealed. In total, 86 nightclubs faced scrutiny, and 22 were shut down.
"They were operating on trade licences and excise licences, and without permission of the fire department and consent to operate from the state pollution control board," Sawant explained about the sealed establishments.
Questions Over Coastal Zone and Historical Operation
The Chief Minister provided clarification on the land status. According to the Coastal Zone Management Plan of 2011, the Birch site did not fall under Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules. It was classified as a settlement area.
"We wrote a letter to NCSCM to find out who did mischief in the plan," said Sawant. He added that the state revenue department is conducting an inquiry to identify who altered the plan.
Sawant also revealed that the venue operated as 'Blue Light' back in 1999, marking its first iteration.
Allegations Against Celebrity-Owned Club
Yuri Alemao escalated the confrontation with another serious allegation. He claimed a club owned by Bollywood celebrity Shilpa Shetty is operating illegally in Goa.
"Somebody said that there is a club owned by Shilpa Shetty that is illegal, and such clubs are operating till date. How many unauthorised clubs in salt plans and CRZ continue to operate in the state? How much time will it take to shut these clubs? I read about Shilpa Shetty’s club on social media," Alemao stated.
This allegation adds a high-profile dimension to the ongoing debate about regulatory enforcement in Goa's hospitality and nightlife sector.
