Schaeffler India is facing further legal developments following a tragic industrial accident at its Talegaon manufacturing facility in Pune, India, which claimed the lives of two workers in June 2026. The ongoing investigation has now been extended to include the company’s Managing Director and CEO, Harsha Gopal Kadam, who was taken into police custody on 19 October 2026.

The fatal incident occurred on 9 June 2026, when an unexpected release of carbon dioxide gas during a scheduled cylinder replacement resulted in the deaths of two workers employed by an external service provider. The accident has since been the subject of an investigation by local authorities into the circumstances surrounding the incident and the responsibilities associated with factory operations.

According to a regulatory disclosure issued by Schaeffler India on 20 October, Mr. Kadam was taken into custody by the Talegaon MIDC Police Station, operating under the Pimpri Chinchwad Police Commissionerate, at approximately 6:40 p.m. on 19 October.

Investigation Extended to Company Leadership

Schaeffler India confirmed that the scope of the investigation had been expanded to include Kadam in his capacity as the legally designated occupier of the factory premises under applicable Indian legislation.

The investigation is being conducted under provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, India’s criminal law framework.

The company emphasized that it, its employees, officers and Managing Director have been cooperating with the investigating authorities throughout the proceedings.

In its official disclosure, Schaeffler India stated:

“The Company is evaluating the developments in consultation with its legal advisors, has complied and continues to comply with all laws applicable to it and will take all steps necessary in accordance with applicable law to resolve the situation.”

Business Operations Continue

Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Schaeffler India confirmed that its manufacturing and business operations continue in the ordinary course.The company’s senior management remains responsible for overseeing daily activities, and Schaeffler has indicated that the investigation has not affected its ongoing business operations.

The company continues to assess the situation in consultation with its legal advisers and has reiterated its commitment to cooperating with the relevant authorities.

Industrial Safety and Accountability

The loss of two lives is a tragic reminder of the importance of workplace safety, particularly during industrial maintenance and servicing activities involving potentially hazardous gases and equipment.

The ongoing investigation will seek to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident and determine any legal responsibilities under Indian law. Mr. Kadam’s inclusion in the investigation does not, in itself, establish personal wrongdoing or criminal liability.

As the proceedings continue, the industrial community will be following developments closely, with particular attention to workplace safety, contractor protection and the responsibilities of manufacturing organizations toward everyone operating within their facilities.

Source: Schaeffler India regulatory disclosure, 20 October 2026, as reported by various local Indian sources. The investigation remains ongoing.