The investigation into the deadly explosion at an illegal firecracker manufacturing unit in Rajasthan’s Bhiwadi has revealed that the factory operators were allegedly importing chemicals and raw materials from China without obtaining the required licences, police officials said. The blast, which claimed the lives of seven workers — most of them migrant labourers from Bihar — has led to the arrest of three accused individuals.
Those arrested have been identified as Hemant Sachdeva, Hemant Sharma, and Abhinandan Tiwari. According to investigators, the group ran an organised operation that enabled year-round production and nationwide distribution of fireworks through networks linked to traders based in Delhi. Senior police officer Manish Chaudhary stated that the probe had uncovered a “China connection,” with restricted chemicals being sourced through improper channels.
Police said the accused had divided responsibilities within the operation. Sachdeva allegedly managed sales and procurement of raw materials, Sharma handled factory rentals and logistics arrangements, and Tiwari supervised labour recruitment and machinery operations. Investigators believe the group used multiple business licences to obtain controlled chemicals that are otherwise difficult to procure legally in India without proper authorisation. The materials were then used to manufacture fireworks covertly in rented industrial units across different zones, often employing local workers unaware of the risks involved.
The explosion caused extensive destruction and resulted in the deaths of seven workers present at the site. Authorities conducted DNA sampling to confirm the identities of the victims due to the severity of the blast. After identification was completed, the bodies were handed over to the families six days later.
Local administration coordinated arrangements to transport both the victims’ families and the mortal remains to their native villages in Bihar, primarily in the Champaran region. Ambulances and buses were provided to facilitate the journey, ensuring that the bodies could be taken home for last rites. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities examining supply chains, licensing violations, and possible wider networks connected to the illegal manufacturing operation.
