The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is examining a request from the Goa government seeking the revocation of passports belonging to Gaurav Luthra and Saurabh Luthra — owners of the Birch by Romeo nightclub where a devastating fire killed 25 people, according to people familiar with the matter.

Sources said the MEA has received a formal communication from the state authorities and is processing it under the provisions of the Passports Act, in line with extant rules. The move signals a tightening of the net around the two owners as multiple agencies probe alleged violations leading up to the blaze.

The Luthras, who co-owned the upscale nightclub, have been under scrutiny since the incident, which triggered outrage over safety lapses and regulatory oversight in Goa’s nightlife industry.

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