WB: Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar requests centre to probe blast in central Kolkata
Sep 14, 2024
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], September 14 : Union Minister and West Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President, Sukanta Majumdar, has written to Home Minister Amit Shah, requesting a thorough investigation into the blast incident in central Kolkata.
In his letter to the Home Minister, Majumdar stated, "I write to you with grave concern regarding the tragic incident that occurred today in central Kolkata, where a blast claimed the life of a 58-year-old ragpicker near Blochmann Street and SN Banerjee Road."
"The incident, which took place around 1:45 pm, has caused significant alarm among citizens and demands immediate attention," the letter read.
"According to reports, the area was promptly cordoned off by local authorities, and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) was deployed to the site. While traffic in the vicinity has resumed following a preliminary inspection, the cause and nature of the explosion remain under forensic investigation," it added.
The WB BJP chief further called for a comprehensive investigation to determine the cause of the explosion.
"Given the seriousness of the incident and its potential implications for public safety, I respectfully request that the Ministry of Home Affairs initiate a thorough investigation, considering the local police's limited capacity to handle the situation comprehensively," the letter stated.
"I urge you to consider a detailed investigation by the NIA or another central agency to ensure a thorough examination of all possible angles related to the incident. Swift action will help restore public confidence and ensure that those responsible for any malicious activities are brought to justice," Majumdar added.
The WB BJP chief also emphasised that the Centre's attention to the matter is crucial in maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of citizens in West Bengal.
Majumdar also criticised the state government over the explosion and called it a total failure of law and order under the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government.
Speaking to ANI, Majumdar said, "The explosion is of grave concern. It must be investigated thoroughly. I believe an investigation by the NIA is necessary. I don't think the police possess the professionalism required to investigate this incident properly. Moreover, it highlights the failure of Mamata Banerjee as Home Minister."
"If this is the state of law and order, the Home Minister should resign. That's why the BJP is calling for her resignation. It is a complete failure of law and order," Majumdar stated.
A ragpicker was injured in a blast at the intersection of Blochmann Street and SN Banerjee Road in central Kolkata on Saturday afternoon. The injured man was identified as Bapi Das (58).
According to Kolkata Police, "At around 1:45 pm, police received reports of a blast at the intersection of Blochmann Street and SN Banerjee Road. A ragpicker was injured in the explosion."
The officer-in-charge of Taltala police station arrived at the scene and discovered that the injured person had been taken to NRS Hospital with a wrist injury.
Police said that a plastic gunny bag was also found at the scene. A team from BDDS checked the bag and the vicinity. After their clearance, traffic was allowed to resume.
Police stated that the injured ragpicker disclosed his name as Bapi Das at the hospital and revealed that he had been living on the footpath of SN Banerjee Road.
Police added that the injured man is undergoing treatment, and a statement has not yet been recorded as the patient needs time to recover.