The Church in Goa has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating fire that tore through the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in Arpora on Sunday midnight, claiming 25 lives. Among the victims were four tourists and 14 staff members, while six others sustained injuries in the blaze that shocked the coastal state.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed that the manager of the nightclub has been arrested, and a warrant has been issued against the owner. He also ordered a magisterial inquiry to determine the circumstances leading to the tragedy.
In an official statement issued on December 7, 2025, the Diocesan Centre for Social Communications Media said the Archbishop of Goa and Daman, the Auxiliary Bishop, and the Church in Goa are “deeply saddened” by the horrific incident. The Church extended its heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and all those affected.
“It is with a heavy heart that we extend our deepest condolences to the families affected by this tragic incident,” the statement read. “In this time of profound grief, we raise a prayer, asking God to surround the bereaved with His comfort and strength. We also pray for the healing of those injured and for courage to all who are personally impacted by this tragedy.”
The Church has urged the community to stand in solidarity with the families of the victims as investigations continue into one of Goa’s most heartbreaking nightclub disasters.
