Published Jun 13, 2026 | 1:07 PM ⚊ Updated Jun 13, 2026 | 1:07 PM
Visakhapatnam Steel Plant. Credit: x.com/RINL_VSP
Synopsis: RINL has suspended 24 officers after an internal probe into the Vizag Steel Plant accident that killed nine workers and injured five. Many were from SMS and Quality Assurance, with transfers also made. Investigations cite lapses and poor quality control. NHRC and Ministry reports are awaited amid calls for higher compensation.
Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Limited (RINL) has issued suspension orders to several officers following an internal inquiry into the deadly accident at the Vizag Steel Plant on 8 June that resulted in the death of nine workers and caused critical injuries to five.
Ayodhya Ram of the Centre for Indian Trade Unions (CITU) told South First that 24 officers were suspended in connection with the incident, including General and Deputy Managers from various departments.
Many officers were also transferred within the organisation, but official confirmation of the reason for the transfers is awaited, as it’s a regular practice at VSP. However, Ram shared that two people, allegedly from the personnel department, were transferred to Steel Melt Shops (SMS) and Coke & Coal in relation to the tragedy.
Reports suggest that a majority of the officers facing suspension were from SMS 1, SMS 2, and Quality Assurance. An employee confirmed to South First that disciplinary action was taken after an internal probe found lapses leading up to the accident as well as the inadequate response in the aftermath.
Also Read: Vizag Steel Plant tragedy: Workers list the lessons that were ignored
He also shared that transfers were made in the Material Management department. The internal investigation allegedly found what workers described as a lack of quality control and the use of substandard raw material.
RINL has not made any public statement regarding the measures. Central Public Information Officer at the organisation declined South First’s request for a comment on the developments.
The three-member expert committee appointed by the Union Ministry of Steel is expected to submit its report soon. Workers hope that the findings from the investigation will be made accessible to the public, unlike the previous inquiry reports, which remain unavailable.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Secretary’s report ordered by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is also awaited.
Meanwhile, pressure is mounting on the Ministry of Steel and the government of Andhra Pradesh to increase the ex gratia amount for the victims and their kin to Rupees 1 Crore.
Former CM and YSRCP chief Jagan Mohan Reddy called for the state government to pass a resolution opposing the privatisation of the Vizag Steel Plant, similar to what his government had done before.
