Tragedy at Sigachi Industries: 40 Dead, Compensation Promised

Hyderabad, July 2 (PTI): Sigachi Industries Ltd has confirmed the tragic loss of 40 of its team members following a devastating explosion and fire at their Pashamylaram facility in Sangareddy district. The company has pledged an ex gratia payment of Rs 1 crore to each family of the deceased.

As per the Sangareddy Superintendent of Police, Paritosh Pankaj, the official death toll remains at 38 as of Wednesday afternoon. "It is with deep sorrow that we announce the loss of 40 valued team members and report that over 33 others have been injured," the company expressed in a released statement.

On Tuesday, Telangana's Chief Minister, A Revanth Reddy, declared that the state government would ensure Rs 1 crore compensation for each bereaved family. Additionally, those severely injured will receive Rs 10 lakh, while those with minor injuries, who are expected to resume work upon recovery, will be granted Rs 5 lakh.

Following the accident, Sigachi Industries has emphasized its efforts in coordinating emergency responses, assisting families, and collaborating with ongoing investigations. The firm reiterated its commitment to provide Rs 1 crore ex gratia to families of the deceased while ensuring complete medical and rehabilitation support for the injured.

Contrary to some media reports, the company clarified that a reactor explosion was not the cause of the accident. Plant operations will be temporarily halted for about 90 days, with the company pledging to provide updates as investigations unfold.

During a visit to Patancheru Area Hospital, Sigachi's Vice-Chairman, Chidambarnathan Shanmuganathan, encountered grieving relatives seeking information about their loved ones. Addressing the concerns, he stated that the plant had operated successfully for 35 years, emphasizing, "There is absolutely no negligence. We operate with employee goodwill in mind." However, when questioned about the lack of a No Objection Certificate from the Fire Department, Shanmuganathan noted that he had not been directly involved with the facility's oversight for five years, thus restricting his commentary on the matter.

Sangareddy police have registered an FIR against the plant's management, initiated by a victim's family member, under Sections 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 110 (attempt to commit culpable homicide), and 117 (voluntarily causing grievous hurt) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).