A blast at 1:45 p.m. today shook the crossing of Blochmann Street and SN Banerjee Road in central Kolkata, killing a 58-year-old ragpicker. According to police, the deceased victim has been identified as Bapi Das, who succumbed to his injuries at NRS Medical College and Hospital.
VIDEO | Rag picker, identified as Bapi Das, injured in blast on SN Banerjee Road in central Kolkata earlier today. More details awaited.
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 14, 2024
(Source: Third Party) pic.twitter.com/5pohm19FoB
Immediate Response by Law Enforcement
Police from Taltala Police Station reached the spot immediately after getting news of the explosion and sealed the area. The police got the BDDS team after a suspicious plastic gunny bag was recovered from the entry point of Blochmann Street. Long time search operation was continued before the green signal was given, and the traffic movement started.
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Forensic Investigations Underway
Consequently, police initiated a forensic probe into the cause and nature of the explosion. “No other threats were found in the vicinity”, BDDS confirmed.
Political Reaction: Demands for NIA Probe
The incident has also drawn political responses as the Bengal BJP chief and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar has demanded a probe by the National Investigating Agency. He also expressed doubts over the capability of the local police in handling the probe with professionalism. He blamed West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for the deteriorating law and order situation in the state and asked her to quit as Home Minister.
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