Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav on Saturday resorted to strict action after a devastating firecracker factory explosion in Dewas district claimed several lives. The Chief Minister issued directives to suspend three senior officials with immediate effect.

Among the ones suspended are Sub-divisional Magistrate (SDM) Sanjeev Saxena, Naib Tehsildar Ravi Sharma and SDOP Deepa Mandwe. The state government has released the suspension orders against the said officers.

During the suspension period, Saxena and Sharma will remain attached to the Dewas Collector’s office, while Mandwe has been transferred to the MP Police Headquarters (PHQ) in Bhopal. 

“No one shall be spared,” vows CM

The Chief Minister clarified that no person responsible for the tragedy shall be spared. Notably, the action comes in the wake of allegations of grave negligence and failure in administrative duties linked to the incident.

Administration cites serious lapses in duty

As per the orders issued by the Divisional Commissioner, SDM Saxena and Naib Tehsildar Sharma, who were posted at Tappa Chidawad in Tonk Khurd Tehsil, were found guilty of dereliction of duties, indifference and irregularities, while discharging their official responsibilities. The administration said that their conduct amounted to indiscipline and misconduct, which allegedly contributed to the occurrence of the mishap. Consequently, both officers were suspended with immediate effect. 

SDOP Mandwe failed to inspect factory

Meanwhile, an order issued by the Home Department mentioned that SDOP Mandwe failed to conduct inspections of the firecracker factory as per instructions issued periodically by the government. The order further outlined that she did not submit reports to senior officials regarding the functioning of the factory. 

Authorities described her actions as gross negligence and irresponsible conduct towards duty, leading to her suspension. 

CM announced aid for victims’ kin

The massive explosion transpired at a firecracker factory in Dewas, claiming the lives of numerous people and leaving others grievously injured. The Chief Minister expressed grief over the deaths and announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh each for the kin of the deceased.