Metro India News | Hyderabad 

The Telangana High Court on Thursday expressed strong dissatisfaction over the slow pace of investigation into the Sigachi industrial fire tragedy that claimed 54 lives. The Division Bench-I, comprising Chief Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh and Justice GM Mohiuddin, heard the public interest litigation (PIL) on the incident.

The petitioner’s counsel highlighted serious lapses revealed in the 278-page report of the State Government’s Technical Expert Committee. The court was informed that the company increased production in a building last inspected in 1994 and employed unskilled workers to handle hazardous materials. Shockingly, 17 tonnes of MCC were stored at the site, a gross safety violation, and the explosion obliterated the missing workers, leaving no trace behind.

The Chief Justice questioned the Additional Advocate General (AAG) on the criminal investigation. The AAG said only a few witnesses remained, but the Bench, noting over 200 statements already collected, expressed skepticism and asked why a chargesheet had not been filed. Concerned about the probe’s direction, the Chief Justice suggested a court-monitored investigation. The AAG replied that police were awaiting the final expert report.

The court also noted inadequate compensation. Temporary and casual workers received Rs 26–30 lakh, and families of missing workers only Rs 25 lakh, against Rs 1 crore due to each victim. Most deceased were migrant workers, with payments disbursed via the Deputy Commissioner of Labour’s office.

The Bench directed authorities to present the case diary and relevant records in the next hearing, noting regulatory officials and company employees had not been examined. The Additional AG assured filing of witness statements and action on the expert report. Counsel for Sigachi appeared on notice, seeking two weeks, which was allowed. The matter is listed for 9 December 2025.