Goa CM: Crackers Caused Deadly Nightclub Blaze; Orders Audit of Illegal Clubs

• Goa CM Pramod Sawant stated the nightclub fire, which killed at least 25, was caused by internal electric firecrackers, not a cylinder blast.
• Four nightclub staff were arrested, and an FIR was registered against club owners; a sarpanch was also detained.
• CM Sawant ordered action against officials who permitted the club to operate illegally and announced an audit of unauthorized clubs.
• A magisterial inquiry and a high-level committee have been formed to investigate the incident and submit reports within a week.
• The government announced ₹5 lakh ex-gratia for deceased victims' families and ₹50,000 for the injured.

Why It Matters: Goa fire tragedy exposes deadly risks of illegal clubs and official negligence, prompting audits.