Schaeffler India CEO Harsha Kadam detained over June gas leak deaths at Talegaon plant

Police have detained Harsha Gopal Kadam, managing director and chief executive officer of Schaeffler India, as part of the investigation into the June accident at the company's factory in Talegaon, Pune district. He is being questioned. Two contract workers died in the accident. The action has brought the issue of safety and compliance with rules in factories back into discussion.

The accident took place on June 9, 2026, at Schaeffler India's production plant in Talegaon. Scheduled work was under way to replace the carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas cylinders of the factory's fire-suppression system when gas suddenly escaped and two workers died. The workers were employed through the company's service provider. Some other people were also reportedly affected in the incident.

According to the information the company gave to the stock market on October 20, Kadam was detained for questioning on October 19 by Talegaon MIDC police under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The company's statement says his role as the factory's legal "occupier" has been brought within the scope of the investigation. Detention does not mean guilt has been established. Responsibility will become clear only through further legal process and investigation.

Police began their investigation after the accident. Questions have reportedly been raised about the factory's ventilation system, emergency exit routes, the presence of trained staff and rescue preparedness. The probe is also looking into whether the required safety rules were followed at the work site, and whether there was a delay in providing help after the accident. These are allegations and questions raised during the investigation. On their basis, no one's legal responsibility can be considered finally established.

The company says its officers and employees are cooperating with the investigation. The sequence of events is being reviewed with the help of legal advisers, and necessary steps will be taken in accordance with applicable law. According to the company, senior management is handling day-to-day operations, and production and other business are continuing as before.

Schaeffler is a major German automotive and industrial technology company. It makes bearings, clutch systems, transmission components, engine and chassis parts, and drivetrain solutions for electric vehicles. Schaeffler India has five production centres in the country. The Talegaon plant near Pune makes engine and transmission components, chain drive systems, valve train components and needle roller bearings. Attention now turns to what conclusions the investigating agency reaches and what emerges about the factory's safety arrangements.