FIR Sought Against Paras Dyeing Mill Owners After 3 Workers Die in Toxic Gas Leak

Surat | Gujarat — The tragic death of three workers due to suspected toxic gas inhalation at a textile processing unit in Pandesara GIDC has triggered strong demands for legal action against the factory’s owners, with activists and labour representatives urging authorities to hold the management accountable for what they call “gross negligence towards workers’ lives.”

The incident occurred at Paras Dyeing and Printing Mills where workers reportedly inhaled poisonous gas while cleaning a chemical tank inside the facility. Three workers lost their lives while several others reportedly fell unconscious during the operation, raising serious concerns about workplace safety in hazardous industrial environments.

Following the incident, a representation has been made to deputy chief minister Harsh Sanghavi demanding that an FIR be registered not only against the contractor but also against the owners, occupiers and management of the mill. The contractor has been arrested by the Pandesara police in connection with the incident, while the company owners and management are roaming freely. 

Safety lapses alleged in confined tank cleaning

According to details that have emerged, the workers were sent inside a confined chemical tank for cleaning work where toxic gases were likely present. However, it is alleged that the workers were not provided with essential safety measures such as gas detection devices, oxygen supply equipment or protective gear.

Labour activists have claimed that the absence of basic safety protocols directly led to the tragedy.

“This incident is extremely serious and reflects a complete disregard for the safety and lives of workers,” said a representation submitted to the state authorities. “When workers are sent inside chemical tanks or confined spaces, strict safety measures are mandatory.”

FIR only against contractor sparks outrage

Police have reportedly registered a case in connection with the incident but have so far taken action only against the contractor involved in the cleaning work. However, critics argue that the responsibility cannot be limited to the contractor alone.

Under Indian labour and factory safety laws, the primary responsibility for ensuring worker safety lies with the factory management and occupier.

Legal experts pointed out that Section 7A of the Factories Act, 1948 clearly places the duty of ensuring workers’ health and safety on the factory owner. Additionally, provisions under Sections 41B and 41C mandate strict safety systems in factories dealing with hazardous chemical processes.

“The contractor cannot be made the sole scapegoat,” a labour rights representative said. “The management and owners of the mill are legally responsible for maintaining safe working conditions.”

Call for criminal charges

Those demanding action have also argued that the incident amounts to a serious criminal offence under the Indian Penal Code.

“They have cited provisions related to death caused by negligence, negligence involving hazardous substances and acts endangering human life. Additionally, Section 92 of the Factories Act provides for criminal liability if safety provisions are violated inside a factory” said Darshan Nayak, social activist.

Activists say the failure to hold factory owners accountable in such cases has led to repeated industrial accidents in the textile hubs of Surat.