A tragic fire broke out on the night of December 6 at Birch nightclub in Arpora, Goa, killing 25 people. Twenty victims were staff members from various Indian states and Nepal, while five were tourists. The fire started during Bollywood night when sparks from a dance performance ignited the bamboo and wood false ceiling. Among the dead was Ishaq Hussein Khaku, a 25-year-old IT engineer from Bengaluru, who returned inside to retrieve his dropped phone but never made it out. Survivors described panic as smoke filled the club. The venue had only one entry and exit, causing confusion, and lacked proper fire safety equipment. The club management was criticized for poor emergency response, with reports that only the dance troupe was helped urgently by bouncers. Authorities arrested five staff members including the chief general manager and have charged the owners and partners under Indian law. The owners fled to Thailand but were detained there; efforts are underway to bring them back. Goa’s Chief Minister Pramod Sawant ordered a magisterial probe and promised strict action. Both state and central governments announced compensation for victims’ families and injured. The Bardez administration sealed the club premises and is reviewing safety norms for nightclubs across the state. Activists claim the club violated multiple laws, including Coastal Regulation Zone rules and building permits. They also allege widespread non-compliance in Goa’s nightlife sector. A court hearing is scheduled for December 16 to consider a petition demanding detailed investigation and demolition of the club. Political leaders have demanded the Chief Minister’s resignation over the tragedy. The fire has highlighted serious gaps in safety and enforcement in Goa’s booming tourism industry.