The Luthra brothers, Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, owners of the ill-fated Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora, Goa, are currently missing following a devastating fire that claimed 25 lives. This tragedy marks a significant downturn for the brothers, celebrated for their rapid expansion in India's hospitality sector, who now face accusations of negligence and have become fugitives evading authorities.

The fire, believed to have been sparked by fireworks, rapidly engulfed the popular party venue on Saturday night. Preliminary investigations have revealed several violations at the nightclub, most notably the absence of a No Objection Certificate from the fire department and licensing irregularities. The majority of the fatalities were staff members, along with five tourists, including members of a family from Delhi.

In the wake of the incident, the Luthra brothers reportedly fled India, taking a 5:30 am flight to Phuket, Thailand, on December 7, just hours after the fire. The Goa Police have since launched a manhunt and are seeking the assistance of Interpol to locate and apprehend the brothers. A Blue Corner Notice has been issued, signaling to international law enforcement agencies to provide information on their whereabouts. The CBI is expected to formally request Interpol to issue the notice. A Look Out Notice was also issued with the Bureau of Immigration.

Adding to the Luthra brothers' woes, the Goa government has ordered the demolition of another property owned by them: the Romeo Lane beach shack in Vagator. This demolition is reportedly due to illegal construction. This is the second club owned by the Luthra brothers to face demolition. The Goa government has decided to demolish all clubs and cafes run by the Luthra brothers across Vagator and other coastal pockets.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident. A four-member inquiry committee has been constituted.

Saurabh Luthra posted a statement on Instagram expressing grief and offering support to the victims' families.

Authorities are coordinating with Thai officials to locate the brothers in Phuket and are seeking their deportation based on an arrest warrant. India and Thailand have an extradition treaty operational since 2015.

The Luthra brothers' journey began in Delhi's Hudson Lane, from where they expanded their restaurant chain to 30 cities. Now, they are fugitives facing serious charges, with their business empire rapidly collapsing in the aftermath of the Goa nightclub fire.