The Luthra brothers — Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra — are Indian restaurateurs and businessmen who co-owned the “Birch by Romeo Lane” nightclub in Arpora, Goa. The Week
Their business empire grew rapidly over the past decade, starting with successful lounges and restaurants in Delhi and expanding to nightclubs, restro-bars and hospitality ventures in about 30 cities across India and even Dubai. The Week
⚠️ Goa Nightclub Fire & Legal Trouble
On 7 December 2025, a deadly fire broke out at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Goa, killing 25 people and injuring several others. www.ndtv.com
Hours after the blaze, the Luthra brothers boarded a flight to Thailand (Phuket), triggering controversy and criminal action. The Times of India
❗ Legal Charges
- They are wanted by Goa police in connection with the fire and have been charged with culpable homicide not amounting to murder and conspiracy. www.ndtv.com
- Investigators have alleged safety lapses and violations at the club, including potentially illegal construction and lack of adequate fire precautions. Business Standard
🌍 Detained in Thailand
The brothers were detained by Thai police in Phuket following coordination with Indian authorities. The Times of India
India has taken several legal steps:
- Passports have been suspended by the Ministry of External Affairs, preventing further travel. The Times of India
- An Interpol Blue Corner Notice has been issued to help locate and restrict movement internationally. The Times of India
- A Goa Police team is expected to travel to Thailand to coordinate their deportation back to India. www.ndtv.com
⚖️ Court Proceedings & Bail Attempts
While detained abroad, the brothers also approached a Delhi court seeking transit anticipatory bail, claiming they travelled to Thailand for work and intended to cooperate with the investigation. The Times of India
However:
- The bail plea was rejected by the Delhi court amid the ongoing probe. Lokmat Times
- Police have formally declared them fugitives in the case. The Times of India
🧠 Public Reaction & Controversy
The brothers’ departure from India amid a tragedy has sparked widespread outrage:
- Reports say they booked flights as rescue operations were still underway. The Economic Times
- Authorities are also probing safety and regulatory compliance at the club before the incident. Business Standard
📌 What Happens Next
- Deportation/Extradition: India may pursue deportation from Thailand, where arrangements could see them returned without full formal extradition if agreed by Thai authorities. www.ndtv.com
- Judicial Review: Their legal status and any future bail options will be considered once they are back in India and presented before courts.
🧾 Quick Facts
Names: Saurabh Luthra & Gaurav Luthra
Business: Co-owners of Birch by Romeo Lane (club & restaurant chain)
Incident: Goa nightclub fire — 25 deaths (Dec 7, 2025)
Current Status: Detained in Thailand; facing deportation to India
Charges: Culpable homicide, conspiracy (ongoing investigation)
