Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed two major incidents that have recently shaken the state – the Dombivali boiler blast and the Pune car accident case.
Dombivali Boiler Blast: A Call for Factory Relocation
The Dombivali boiler blast, which occurred on May 23, 2024, has claimed 11 lives and injured over 60 people. The blast took place at Amudan Chemicals Private Limited, a company that manufactures food colours. The explosion was so powerful that it shattered glass panes and damaged rooftops within a 4-km radius.
In response to the incident, Fadnavis stated, “Any factory cannot be moved in a day. Discussions have been going on for a couple of years that these factories should be moved. Uddhav Thackeray has not done anything about this. Show me one proof that he has moved a file. But, I feel that these factories should be given an alternate space…”
Fadnavis’ comments come amidst growing concerns about the safety of factories located near residential areas. The incident has sparked a debate about the need for stricter industrial safety regulations and the relocation of hazardous factories.
Pune Car Accident Case: Allegations of Politicisation
In another incident, a 17-year-old boy allegedly crashed his Porsche into two bikers, resulting in their deaths. The case has sparked controversy due to allegations of police negligence and preferential treatment.
Addressing the issue, Fadnavis said, “They (opposition) are trying to politicise the entire matter. Whatever action the police had to take in this matter the police have done all of that. The police have appealed to the Higher Court regarding the wrong judgment of the Juvenile Justice board.”
The Deputy CM’s comments come at a time when the police have faced criticism for their handling of the case. Two police officers have been suspended for not following protocol, and the case has been transferred to the Pune Police Crime Branch.
As Maharashtra grapples with these incidents, the words of the Deputy CM highlight the ongoing debates about industrial safety and law enforcement in the state.
