Jaipur Police Commissioner Sachin Mittal has taken strict action in response to a deadly fire at an illegally operated firecracker factory in the Kho Nagorian area of Rajasthan. Following a preliminary inquiry, nine police personnel, including the Station House Officer (SHO) of Kho Nagorian Police Station, were suspended for alleged negligence in their duties. The incident resulted in the loss of eight lives due to a massive fire at the illegal firecracker manufacturing unit.
Commissioner Mittal highlighted serious lapses at both the beat and police station levels based on the interim investigation report. As a result, SHO Om Prakash Matwa, Head Constable Ashok, and Constables Ramavatar, Dinesh, Asif, Harendra, and Ashok were suspended. Earlier, Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Ranjita Sharma had suspended Assistant Sub-Inspector Amar Singh and Head Constable Pappu Ram in connection with the incident.
In total, nine police personnel have been suspended in relation to the case. The investigation into the incident has been assigned to Additional Commissioner of Police (Crime) Ajay Singh, who will oversee a comprehensive inquiry into all aspects, including the role of local police personnel and compliance with safety regulations. A detailed report will be submitted, leading to further legal and departmental actions against any responsible individuals.
In response to the incident, Commissioner Mittal has directed intensive survey and inspection drives by Deputy Commissioners of Police and Station House Officers in Jaipur Commissionerate. They are tasked with identifying and taking immediate action against illegally operating factories, warehouses, firecracker storage facilities, and other hazardous establishments. Additionally, beat officers and police station staff will conduct surveys to detect unauthorized storage of explosives and firecracker stockpiles in residential areas.
Special emphasis will be placed on ensuring compliance with safety norms and licensing requirements for hazardous materials. Commissioner Mittal emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards negligence in matters affecting public safety, affirming that strict actions will be taken against those found responsible.
