The magisterial inquiry into the Goa tragedy revealed major procedural lapses by local authorities, even as police initiate steps to apprehend the main accused who have fled the country. The inquiry found the local Sarpanch had issued multiple permissions, including the Trade License, for the establishment. Crucially, the local body failed to seal the premises, which had been operating illegally since March 2024, violating the Goa Panchayat Raj Act.

Goa Police discovered the two main accused, Gaurav and Saurabh Luthra, fled to Phuket on a 5:30 AM flight on December 7th, hours after the incident. A Lookout Circular (LOC) was issued. Police are coordinating with the CBI’s Interpol Division for their apprehension. The Government is fully supporting the transportation of the remains of the 20 deceased. A committee has been formed to draft new safety standards.