Congress Leader Blames Government for Nagpur Explosives Factory Blast

Allegations of Negligence Following Tragic Incident

On Wednesday, Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar accused the government of negligence in connection with the recent explosion at an explosives manufacturing facility in Nagpur, which resulted in the deaths of 19 workers.

The explosion took place on Sunday morning at a factory operated by SBL Energy Limited in Raulgaon village around 6:45 AM. Reports indicate that 18 workers died on the spot, while one succumbed to injuries the following day.

In total, 23 individuals sustained injuries during the incident.

Wadettiwar characterized the event as "tragic and heart-wrenching" and called for a suspension motion in the Assembly to demand an immediate and thorough discussion regarding the incident.

During his address, he noted that 43 workers had lost their lives in similar accidents at explosives factories in the district over the last 18 months.

He expressed concern that despite numerous requests for safety audits of these facilities, no significant action has been taken by either state or central authorities.

Wadettiwar pointed out that the district is home to 11 explosives factories and questioned why the recurrence of such accidents had not led to more stringent inspections by the factories inspectorate and labor department.

"While we promote a 'trillion-dollar economy' and attend events in Davos, workers in Maharashtra are risking their lives for a mere 300 rupees a day," he stated.

He further criticized the lack of serious inspections, despite the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation being located just 10 kilometers from the explosion site.

The Assembly Speaker acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and confirmed that it would be addressed in detail through a calling attention motion by Friday.

On Sunday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a financial aid package of Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased and instructed the company to provide additional support to all affected families.

Fadnavis also stated that a comprehensive investigation into the incident has been ordered.

Additionally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared a compensation of Rs 2 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured, to be disbursed from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund.