Goa fire: Delhi court rejects Luthra brother's transit anticipatory bail pleas

New Delhi: A Delhi court on Thursday dismissed the transit anticipatory bail pleas of Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, owners of the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Goa, where a massive fire last week claimed 25 lives.

The brothers had sought four weeks of transit bail to avoid immediate arrest upon their return from Thailand. Additional Sessions Judge Vandana dismissed the plea, with a detailed order awaited.

During proceedings, Goa’s counsel opposed the plea, saying the brothers had fled Goa immediately after the incident and were attempting to evade the legal process. 'They left, they concealed, and now seek leniency,' the counsel argued, adding that the law does not protect those who avoid summons or warrants. He emphasised that anticipatory bail is discretionary and cannot be granted to individuals who have created obstacles in legal proceedings.

The counsel highlighted the gravity of the allegations, including non-bailable warrants, and said the applicants’ conduct disentitles them from any protection.

The defence argued that the brothers were willing to return immediately and cooperate with the investigation, urging the court not to "punish them at the threshold.' One counsel said, "If I land in India tonight and the investigating officer tells me to appear at midnight, I will be there.'

The defence also stressed that transit bail is not a determination on merits but a limited measure to ensure safe access to the court, citing a Supreme Court order allowing temporary protection for accused abroad under similar circumstances. 'I only seek protection for a few days to reach the court safely. When a citizen is willing to submit to the law, the Court must extend a helping hand, not a fist,' the counsel argued.