58-Year-Old Ragpicker Killed in Blast in Kolkata; BJP Demands NIA Probe

Kolkata: A 58-year-old ragpicker was killed after being critically wounded in a blast at the intersection of Blochmann Street and SN Banerjee Road in central Kolkata around 1.45 pm today, according to officials.

The deceased, identified as Bapi Das, was rushed to NRS Medical College and Hospital but later died from his injuries.

Police from the Taltala Police Station quickly responded to the scene, noticing a plastic gunny bag near the entry point of Blochmann Street. The area was cordoned off, and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) was called in for inspection.

After a detailed examination, BDDS officials cleared the area, allowing traffic to resume. Forensic experts are now investigating the cause and nature of the explosion, reports revealed.

Reacting to the blast, BJP leader and Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar called for an NIA investigation, criticising the local police for lacking the expertise to handle the case. He also attacked West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, holding her responsible for the state’s worsening law and order situation. Majumdar demanded her resignation as Home Minister, citing her failure to maintain security in the state.