Bombay High Court Initiates Suo Moto PIL Following Devastating Fire Tragedy in Goa

Court addresses illegal constructions and indiscriminate licensing after tragic incident claims 25 lives in Arpora, Goa

In a significant move addressing public safety concerns, the Bombay High Court (Goa Bench) has initiated a Suo Moto Public Interest Litigation (PIL) to tackle the grave issue of illegal constructions and the indiscriminate grant of licenses in Goa. This action follows a tragic fire incident on the night of December 6th and 7th, 2025, in Arpora, Goa, which resulted in the loss of 25 lives.

The decision, delivered by Justices Sarang V. Kotwal and Ashish S. Chavan, came during the hearing of a writ petition initially filed over a private dispute. The court took cognizance of the larger public issue presented by the petitioners' counsel, Mr. Rohit Bras de Sa, highlighting the broader implications of the tragedy.

The court noted that the problem stems from illegal structures and the lax enforcement of existing local laws by authorities, leading to a culture where commercial activities continue despite demolition orders. Often, these orders are stayed by appellate authorities, allowing businesses to operate in unsafe conditions. The judgment emphasized the necessity for proactive collaboration among authorities to prevent future incidents.

In response, the court has appointed Mr. Rohit Bras de Sa as Amicus Curiae to assist in the Suo Moto PIL. Mr. de Sa is tasked with preparing a comprehensive memo addressing the issues across Goa, including the role of various local bodies and adjudicating authorities. This memo is expected within two weeks.

The State Government has been directed to file a response, detailing corrective measures and identifying accountability mechanisms for authorities to prevent such tragedies. The case is scheduled for further consideration on January 12, 2026.

This judgment underscores the court's commitment to addressing systemic issues of public safety and accountability, ensuring that tragedies like the one in Arpora are not repeated.

Bottom Line:

Suo Moto PIL initiated by the Bombay High Court (Goa Bench) concerning larger public safety issues due to illegal structures and indiscriminate grant of licenses, following a tragic fire incident in Arpora, Goa, where 25 lives were lost.

Statutory provision(s): Suo Moto PIL, local laws on illegal constructions and licensing, accountability of authorities

Pradeep P Ghadi Amonkar v. State of Goa, (Bombay)(Goa Bench)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2822143