Tragedy strikes in print press in Pune; sabotage suspected

A minibus carrying 14 employees of Vyoma Graphics, a printing press based in Hinjewadi, Pune were caught in a fire blaze. Initially suspected to be caused by a short circuit, it was later revealed to be an act of sabotage by the driver. 

The driver of the minibus, identified as Janardan Hambardekar, allegedly set the vehicle on fire intentionally. Hambardekar, who had disputes with some staff members and was reportedly upset over a salary cut, suffered burns while escaping and is currently undergoing treatment. He is expected to be arrested once discharged.  

The incident occurred near Hinjewadi IT Park, a prominent business and technology hub in Pune. The minibus was en route to the printing press when the fire broke out. According to police investigations, the fire was not an accident but a deliberate sabotage. Hambardekar had procured benzene, a highly flammable chemical, and used a cloth soaked in industrial toner to start the fire. The driver allegedly targeted specific employees with whom he had grievances, though none of the deceased were among those individuals.  

The fire began in the front of the minibus, prompting the driver to jump out immediately. An employee seated near him also managed to escape quickly. However, others faced delays exiting due to the need to bend seats forward to access the left-side door. Five employees seated at the rear were trapped in the smoke and flames. One broke a rear glass pane to escape, but the other four succumbed to the fire. The minibus continued moving for about 100 metres before coming to a halt.  

A police official stated, “The driver lit a match and set the cloth on fire as the bus neared Hinjewadi. He jumped off the moving vehicle, which then continued for some distance before stopping.” Hambardekar had already suffered burns before escaping and is currently hospitalised.  

Vyoma Graphics representatives did not respond to requests for comment. The incident underscores the critical importance of workplace safety, both within and outside production facilities, and raises concerns about employee grievances and conflict resolution in industrial settings.  

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust safety protocols and effective mechanisms to address employee disputes, ensuring such incidents are prevented in the future. As one official noted, “This was not an accident but a calculated act of sabotage, highlighting the need for better conflict management and safety measures in workplaces.”