No Lift Maintenance from 12 Years: FIR Filed Against 7, Including Company Directors; Magistrate-Led Inquiry Begins
Digital Desk
A major accident at the RKM Power Plant in Dabhra, Sakti district, Chhattisgarh has once again raised serious concerns about industrial safety standards. On Sunday night, a lift collapse claimed the lives of four workers and left six others critically injured. Following the incident, the administration took swift action, filing an FIR against seven people, including company directors and responsible officials. A magistrate-led inquiry has also been ordered.
Lift Not Maintained for 12 Years
Investigations revealed that the lift involved in the accident had not undergone maintenance for the past 12 years. According to workers and eyewitnesses, safety belts, wires, and other equipment were in a dilapidated condition. Several complaints had been made to management, but they were ignored. Local workers, angry after the incident, said that company officials focused only on increasing production and neglected safety.
Plant Management Closes Gates, Blocks Media
After the accident, RKM Plant management closed the gates and prevented the media from entering, deepening public suspicion. Locals stated that neglect of safety norms at the plant was common. Many minor accidents had occurred earlier, which were allegedly suppressed using money and influence.
Action Taken Under IG’s Supervision, 7 Accused Named
Under the guidance of Inspector General Sanjeev Shukla and SP Ankita Sharma, police filed cases against seven company officials and directors under Sections 106(1), 289, and 3(5) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) 2023. The District Collector ordered a magistrate-led inquiry under Section 176(1) of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973. The investigation has been assigned to the Dabhra SDM, who must submit the report within 30 days.
Key Points of Investigation
The inquiry will examine:
· Which workers were on duty at the time of the accident,
· Whether the accident was caused by technical failure or human negligence,
· Whether the Industrial Health and Safety Department had conducted inspections, and if so, what deficiencies were identified,
· Recommendations for preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.
Families Demand Justice
Families of the deceased are mourning at the hospital and demanding justice. The injured are undergoing treatment. Relatives are seeking compensation from the government and strict action against those responsible. Meanwhile, the company management has not yet issued any statement regarding the incident.