Goa, Dec. 15 -- Concerns over illegal nightclubs operating in Goa have intensified, with critics warning that unchecked violations and systemic corruption within the tourism sector pose a serious threat to public safety. The issue has come under sharp focus following incidents in which as many as 25 people lost their lives, allegedly due to gross lapses in fire safety norms and regulatory oversight.

Observers and activists have accused multiple agencies-including the Fire and Emergency Services, local panchayats, and other regulatory departments-of turning a blind eye to blatant violations. These allegations have fuelled claims that a deeply entrenched "hafta raj" has allowed illegal establishments to function openly, despite lacking man...