Pune: Vyoma Graphics Owner Denies Salary Delay, Claims Unawareness of Benzene Theft in Hinjawadi Bus Fire Case
Pune, 21st March 2025: Nitin Shah, the owner of Vyoma Graphics, has denied allegations that unpaid wages led to the tragic bus fire in Pune’s Hinjawadi area. The accused driver, Janardan Hambardikar, had confessed to setting the bus ablaze, citing salary delays and disputes with employees as his motive. However, Shah clarified that Hambardikar’s salary was fully paid, and no dues were pending.
VIDEO | Police arrive at premises of Vyoma Graphics in Hinjawadi area near Pune city.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 21, 2025
On Thursday, a bus driver of the firm – identified as Janardan Hambardekar – killed four employees as an act of revenge over some disputes with them. The driver was also disgruntled due to a… pic.twitter.com/xBuZCg6CV3
Regarding the theft of benzene—an inflammable chemical used in the crime—Shah stated that he was unaware of any missing quantity, whether one litre or five litres. He assured that the company is fully cooperating with the ongoing police investigation.
#WATCH | Pune, Maharashtra | Hinjawadi minibus fire incident | Vyoma Graphics Owner Niten Shah says, "I am in shock… Police investigation is ongoing. We are fully cooperating with the Police. We are helping the injured get medical treatment. We are taking care of everyone (the… https://t.co/xGIghTtZMa pic.twitter.com/8JBUKAn05M
— ANI (@ANI) March 21, 2025
The fatal incident occurred on Wednesday morning when a Tempo Traveller carrying 14 Vyoma Graphics employees caught fire, resulting in four deaths and multiple injuries. Initially suspected to be an accident, investigations later confirmed that Hambardikar had deliberately set the vehicle on fire using benzene and rags.
Hambardikar, who had been employed with the company for over a decade, reportedly held grudges against certain employees. Police have confirmed that his actions were premeditated as part of a revenge plot. He is currently undergoing treatment for injuries and will be formally arrested once his medical care is complete.
