Kolkata: Bomb blast at busy SN Banerjee intersection
A 54-year-old ragpicker, Bapi Das, was injured in a blast that occurred around 1:45pm on Saturday at the intersection of Blochmann Street and SN Banerjee Road in central Kolkata. The incident prompted an immediate response from officials of the Taltala Police Station who observed a plastic gunny bag at the entry point of Blochmann Street. The area was immediately cordoned off with security tape, and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) was summoned to investigate.
Investigation underway into Kolkata blast
The BDDS conducted a thorough inspection of the bag and surrounding area. Following their clearance, traffic in the vicinity was resumed. Forensic investigations are also underway to determine the cause and nature of the explosion. India Today reported that Das, who was residing on the footpath, was rushed to NRS Medical College and Hospital but succumbed to his injuries during treatment.
Victim's injuries and political reactions to blast
The explosion had blown off several fingers of Das, as reported by the police. Reacting to the incident, Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar called for a thorough investigation by the National Investigating Agency (NIA). "The explosion is of great concern. It should be investigated thoroughly...I don't think the police have that kind of professionalism to investigate this incident," he said.
Majumdar criticizes West Bengal CM over blast
Majumdar also criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for the deteriorating law and order condition in the state. "The incident also depicts the failure of Mamata Banerjee as a Home Minister. If this is the condition of law and order in the state, the Home Minister should resign," he added. An eyewitness described how they immediately ran to the spot after hearing a loud explosion, finding Das injured with traffic blocked around them.
