Highlights:
Saurabh and Gaurav Luthra, Delhi-based entrepreneurs, are at the center of a high-profile legal case following a deadly fire at their Goa nightclub, Birch by Romeo Lane. The fire, which occurred on Saturday (6), killed 25 people, leading to charges of culpable homicide against the brothers. Hours after the tragedy, they fled to Phuket, Thailand, prompting an international manhunt.
The Luthra brothers started their hospitality business in 2016 with outlets like Mama’s Buoi and Dramebaaz near Delhi University’s North Campus. Over the years, they expanded their brands, Romeo Lane and Birch, across 30-37 cities in India and abroad. Saurabh Luthra, a former engineering gold medalist, serves as chairman, while Gaurav Luthra is co-founder. Their business empire focuses on urban nightlife and dining experiences.
During a hearing at the Delhi court, senior advocate Tanveer Ahmed Mir, representing the brothers, argued that Saurabh and Gaurav were 'also humans' and had provided employment to thousands. Mir said the brothers were over a thousand kilometers away when the fire occurred and highlighted that the lives lost in the incident were due to negligence, not intentional acts. “Yes, they signed licenses, but that does not mean they were in charge of operations,” he said.
The lawyer also pointed out that the Luthras were law-abiding citizens who pay taxes and employ more than 1,500 families. He compared them to fugitive economic offenders, saying, “They are businessmen, not someone who fled the country after committing a fraud of $602.4 million.” He added that the brothers want to return to India, seek legal remedies, and continue their businesses legally.
The prosecution, however, challenged the bail plea, noting that the Luthras booked a flight within 40 minutes of the fire and left India in the early hours of Sunday (7). The prosecution also presented photos suggesting they were preparing to start a business in Thailand and smiling after the tragedy, raising questions about their intentions.
The Luthras’ anticipatory bail petition is still pending in the Rohini Court, which reserved its order. Meanwhile, public criticism and social media backlash have intensified, with their lawyer claiming that the brothers have received death threats online. Additionally, the Goa Police have demolished some of their properties, citing safety concerns.
Despite the controversy, the Luthras’ business achievements remain notable. They turned small beginnings into a hospitality empire known across multiple Indian cities. While legal proceedings continue, the case highlights the challenges of balancing accountability, business responsibilities, and public scrutiny in the aftermath of a tragic accident.
The court will decide whether the brothers will be allowed to return to India to face legal proceedings directly or remain under restrictions abroad.
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