A devastating fire at a North Goa nightclub, Birch by Romeo Lane, claimed at least 23 lives late Saturday night, primarily club employees. Officials suspect a cylinder blast triggered the blaze, with most victims succumbing to suffocation. The Chief Minister indicated potential non-compliance with fire safety norms, promising action against management and officials.

The Prime Minister also announced that an ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh from the PMNRF will be given to the next of kin of each deceased. The injured will be given Rs. 50,000.

Goa Police said the explosion happened around 1 a.m. near the kitchen area of the nightclub.