The death toll in the explosion at a firecracker factory in Madhya Pradesh's Dewas district has risen to five, as two more injured workers succumbed to their injuries during treatment, officials confirmed on Thursday. The blast, which occurred in the Tonk Kalan area, also left 23 others injured, who are currently undergoing treatment at hospitals in Dewas and Indore.
Details of the Incident
Dewas Additional District Magistrate Sanjeev Jain reported that the two workers, who had been admitted to a private hospital in Dewas with severe injuries, died later in the day. Earlier, officials had confirmed four deaths following the massive explosion and subsequent fire at the factory. The factory had reportedly resumed manufacturing small firecrackers approximately 15 days ago, and its licenses had been renewed earlier this month.
Legal Action and Arrests
Police have arrested the factory owner, Anil Malviya, under the stringent National Security Act (NSA). Additionally, the factory's firecracker licenses have been suspended. Authorities are investigating the circumstances leading to the blast.
Government Response
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav visited the injured workers at hospitals in Indore and assured them of full support from the state government. He announced a high-level inquiry into the incident, stating, "We are conducting a detailed investigation, and further action will be taken based on the investigation report." Yadav emphasized that those responsible would not be spared.
Deputy Chief Minister Jagdish Devda described the incident as "heartbreaking and dangerous" and confirmed that a judicial and magisterial inquiry has been ordered to determine the cause of the explosion and ensure accountability.
Current Status
Of the 23 injured individuals, several remain in critical condition. Medical teams are working around the clock to provide necessary care. The district administration has assured that all possible assistance will be provided to the victims and their families.
