A fire at a popular nightclub in India's coastal region of Goa has killed 25 people, local officials say.
Police had initially thought a gas cylinder in the Birch nightclub's kitchen exploded, but the region's chief minister stated that this had been ruled out and that indoor fireworks were now suspected as the cause of the blaze.
The venue, located near a popular beach, was packed with revellers who had come to hear a Bollywood DJ. Four members of the same Delhi family and 21 staff were among the deceased, according to police reports.
Four individuals have been arrested, including the nightclub's manager, and an arrest warrant has been issued for the owner.
Goa, a former Portuguese colony on the Arabian Sea, is known for its nightlife, sandy beaches, and resorts, attracting millions of tourists annually.
Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as the fire broke out; one onlooker recounted hearing screams and moments of confusion before realizing a massive fire had erupted. The narrow access route leading to the club hampered firefighters' efforts to respond rapidly.
The chief minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant, reported that three victims died from burns, while most of the others succumbed to suffocation. Currently, six people are in stable condition in a hospital.
Among the deceased, many workers hailed from various Indian states and one worker was from Nepal. Officials recognized the national diversity of the staff employed in Goa's vibrant club scene.
An inquiry into the fire's cause has commenced, with promises of rigorous action against those found negligent. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the tragedy, describing it as deeply saddening.
Recent events have reignited discussions on the need for stricter safety regulations at entertainment venues in India, following a series of deadly fires in different states.
