Bhiwadi Factory Blast: Father Searches Rubble Unaware of Son’s Death

Bhiwadi/Motihari: A tragic factory explosion in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, has claimed the lives of seven laborers from Bihar’s East Champaran district, plunging seven families into grief. The blast occurred at an illegal firecracker factory, leaving relatives in shock and disbelief, unable to accept that their sons are no more.

One of the most heartrending stories comes from Sikandar Paswan of Jharokhar town. Sikandar’s 17-year-old son, Mintu, was working in the factory at the time of the explosion. As news of the blast reached him, he ran frantically to the factory, witnessing the raging fire, repeatedly asking anyone passing by: “My son was here—has anyone seen him?”

It was only late in the evening, after authorities confirmed Mintu’s death among the victims, that Sikandar and other parents were forced to confront the tragic reality.

Victims and Background

The deceased have been identified as Sujant Paswan, Mintu Paswan, Ajit, Ravi, Shyam, Amresh, and Shashi Bhushan. All seven had come to Bhiwadi from Motihari roughly six weeks ago, seeking better livelihood opportunities. The families had celebrated Shivratri together on 15 February, only to receive the devastating news the following morning, 16 February.

Allegations of Negligence

An FIR filed by Mintu’s brother, Rajkumar, highlights gross negligence by the factory management. The accused—factory owner Rajendra Kumar, partner Hemant Kumar Sharma, supervisor Abhinandan Tiwari, and contractor Ajit—allegedly continued explosive work without safety equipment, fully aware of the risks involved. Profit motives reportedly took precedence over worker safety.

Authorities have registered a case against the accused, which includes:

• Rajendra Kumar – Factory Owner (Ghaziabad, UP)
• Hemant Kumar Sharma – Factory Partner (Shahjahanpur, Rajasthan)
• Abhinandan Tiwari – Supervisor (Motihari, Bihar)
• Ajit – Contractor (Kherthal-Tijara, Rajasthan)

The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, leaving families mourning and raising serious questions about safety standards in illegal factories.