In a major development in the Birch fire case, the Anjuna Police have arrested Raghuvir Bagkar, a terminated panchayat secretary, after weeks of evasion. Bagkar had reportedly been absconding since the Mapusa court rejected his anticipatory bail, prompting a manhunt that culminated in his arrest earlier this week.
According to police sources, Bagkar was taken into custody following credible leads that placed him in North Goa. The arrest marks a significant step forward in the ongoing investigation into the Birch fire incident, which caused extensive damage and raised questions about negligence and administrative accountability.
The Birch fire case involves a blaze that broke out in the Birch locality last month, destroying property and endangering lives. Preliminary findings suggested lapses in safety protocols and alleged misuse of panchayat permissions, leading investigators to focus on officials connected to the area’s administrative oversight.
Bagkar’s role came under scrutiny after documents surfaced indicating irregularities in land permissions and fire safety compliance. His termination from the panchayat office followed soon after, but his disappearance complicated the investigation. “We had been tracking him for several days. His arrest will help us uncover the chain of events that led to the fire,” said a senior police officer from Anjuna.
Sources close to the investigation revealed that Bagkar is being questioned about his involvement in granting unauthorized clearances and possible links to private contractors. The police are also examining whether the fire was accidental or deliberately caused to conceal illegal activities.
The Mapusa court’s rejection of Bagkar’s anticipatory bail earlier this month intensified efforts to locate him. Officials confirmed that he will now be produced before the court for remand and further interrogation. “We are collecting all relevant evidence and statements. The investigation is progressing steadily,” the officer added.
Local residents have welcomed the arrest, expressing hope that justice will be served. “The fire destroyed homes and livelihoods. Those responsible must be held accountable,” said a resident of Birch.
Meanwhile, the Goa Police have assured transparency in the probe, emphasizing that all individuals involved will be investigated thoroughly. The case has drawn attention to the need for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and oversight in local governance.
As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to release more details about Bagkar’s alleged role and the circumstances surrounding the fire. The arrest has brought renewed focus to the importance of accountability within panchayat administrations and the consequences of negligence in public service.
