Blast in Central Kolkata injures ragpicker; bomb squad at the spot
PTC Web Desk: A 58-year-old ragpicker was injured in a blast that took place around 1.45 pm on Saturday at the intersection of Blochmann Street and SN Banerjee Road in central Kolkata. The local police and bomb disposal squad swiftly responded to the scene.
Officials from Taltala police station found a plastic gunny bag at the entry of Blochmann Street. The area was quickly secured, and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) was called in to investigate. After a thorough inspection of the bag and surrounding area, the BDDS cleared the scene, allowing traffic to resume, according to sources.
The injured ragpicker, identified as Bapi Das, was rushed to NRS Medical College and Hospital for treatment. Due to his condition, officials have not yet recorded his statement. Forensic teams are now investigating the cause and nature of the explosion.
Reacting to the incident, BJP leader and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar called for a National Investigating Agency (NIA) probe, citing concerns about the professionalism of the police in handling such incidents. He also criticised West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of failing to maintain law and order in the state. Majumdar demanded her resignation as Home Minister, citing the incident as evidence of the government's shortcomings.
- With inputs from agencies
