VISAKHAPATNAM: Former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has criticized the TDP-led coalition government for its inadequate response to the recent explosion at a pharma unit in Atchuthapuram Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which resulted in the deaths of 17 workers and injuries to over 30 others.
On Friday, Jagan, accompanied by former MLAs and leaders, visited Usha Prime Hospital in Anakapalle, where the injured are receiving treatment. He spoke with the victims to assess their conditions, inquire about the incident, and determine if safety protocols were observed at the site.
In a press statement, Jagan condemned the lack of immediate action by government officials following the explosion. He highlighted that essential services, such as ambulances, were not provided, and the injured were transported to hospitals in company buses instead of proper medical vehicles. He called for a comprehensive investigation into the incident and urged the enforcement of existing safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies.
Jagan contrasted the current government's response with his administration’s handling of the LG Polymers accident in 2020, noting that his government acted swiftly, providing compensation and support to victims and their families within 24 hours. He criticized the current administration for not maintaining the safety standards implemented during his tenure, which could have potentially avoided the recent disaster. He called for immediate compensation for affected families and stricter enforcement of safety measures in factories.
Jagan also alleged that the government has been focusing on political attacks and murders in the past two months rather than addressing administrative responsibilities.