Goa, Dec. 11 -- A local resident in Goa has come forward alleging that the Luthra brothers - co-owners of the nightclub where a devastating fire killed 25 people - are "habitual offenders" who repeatedly violated rules without facing any meaningful action from authorities. The claims add to growing public anger as the state grapples with the aftermath of one of its worst fire tragedies.

The case took a dramatic turn this week after the Luthra brothers were arrested within four days of the incident. Their capture came just hours after Goa Police revealed that the duo attempted to flee by booking last-minute tickets to Thailand while the blaze was still being contained and rescue efforts were underway.

Investigators say the arrests mark a...