Nuclear mishap: Was young scientist at fault?

Mumbai: What caused Wednesday's fire at one of India's best-protected and most-renowned nuclear centres? Two young research students died in a chemistry lab at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). Originally, a short circuit was suspected to have caused the accident. But now, it turns out that one of the two students who died was involved in a minor fire at another lab two weeks ago.

Did the same student, Umang Singh, commit a fatal mistake in his second accident in two weeks? In a statement to NDTV, the Department of Atomic Energy says, "15 days ago, Umang Singh was involved in a similar incident in another laboratory. There was a small fire on lab platform which he doused with his hands. He had burn injuries on his hands."

Suggestions of Umang's negligence hurt the student's friends and family who want a CBI inquiry into his death.

Umang came from a lower middle class family in Mumbai. His affiliation with one of India's most prestigious science centres was an example to many, say those who knew him.

 "We have got no help at all from the BARC. This is also a question of national security. We demand a CBI enquiry."

BARC says Umang's role in the fire is one of many aspects it's examining. A formal report is expected next week on the conclusions of its inquiry.