Devas, May 15: Authorities have imposed the National Security Act (NSA) against Anil Malviya, the owner of a fireworks manufacturing unit in Tonkakala village, Devas district, Madhya Pradesh. This action follows a devastating explosion at the facility that resulted in the deaths of three individuals and left over 15 others injured.
Malviya has been arrested, and the factory has been sealed. District Collector Rituraj Singh stated that strict measures were taken based on a police report highlighting serious irregularities in the factory’s operations.
“The police report mentions the alleged misuse of the fireworks manufacturing license and violations of safety conditions set under the Explosives Rules. Based on these findings, action has been initiated under the National Security Act (NSA),” Singh explained.
Police officials are preparing cases against four individuals, including three contractors associated with the factory. Investigations are underway to determine if negligence in handling explosive materials or violations of safety regulations caused the explosion.
In a related development, Ujjain’s Divisional Commissioner Ashish Singh has ordered a magistrate inquiry into the incident to ascertain the exact cause of the blast and identify any lapses in adhering to safety protocols.
Atendra Singh Gurjar, the Additional Collector of Ujjain, and Namita Tiwari, the Industrial Health and Safety Officer, have been appointed as inquiry officers. An official statement indicated that the investigation team is required to submit their report within a week. This inquiry will determine the cause of the explosion, verify compliance with the Explosives Rules and the National Building Code-2016, and review the licenses issued for operating the factory.
Authorities have also announced plans to review safety standards at other fireworks manufacturing units operating in the district.
Deputy Chief Minister and district in-charge minister Jagdish Devda visited the explosion site and assessed relief efforts with officials. He later met with injured workers at Devas District Hospital and Amaltas Hospital.
Devda stated, “The state government stands firmly with the affected families during this difficult time. We will provide all possible assistance and medical facilities to the injured.” He also emphasized that strict action will be taken against anyone found responsible for negligence during the investigation.
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