Goa, Dec. 15 -- The High Court has taken suo motu cognisance of the tragic fire incident at Birch by Romeo Lane and appointed Advocate Rohit Bras De Sa as amicus curiae to assist the court in the matter.

During the hearing, the High Court made strong observations, noting that the root of the problem lies in the proliferation of illegal structures. The court pointed out that existing laws empower local bodies to take action against unauthorised constructions, but such powers were either not exercised or ignored. It further observed that in several instances, commercial licences were granted to establishments operating from illegal structures, raising serious concerns about regulatory lapses and accountability.

The court underscored the n...