A blast occurred in Kolkata on Saturday (September 14) between Blochman Street and SN Banerjee Road around 1:45 PM. The blast resulted in one injury. The injured individual has been identified as 54-year-old Bipa Das, who scavenges for trash. He sustained severe injuries, including the loss of several fingers, when a bag he picked up from the trash exploded.
Immediate Response and Investigation
The Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS) has arrived at the scene and examined the bag from which the explosion originated. Traffic in the area has since resumed.
Eyewitness Account
An eyewitness reported that the explosion was very loud. The person saw the injured scavenger lying on the ground with a severe injury to his right wrist. The witness described the blast as extremely loud.
Political Reactions
Sukanta Majumdar Calls for NIA Investigation and Mamata’s Resignation
Central Minister Sukanta Majumdar has expressed concern over the explosion and demanded an investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). He criticized the local police for their handling of the incident, suggesting they lack professionalism. Majumdar also indicated that this incident reflects poorly on Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s leadership, calling for her resignation if the law and order situation in the state does not improve. He has written to the Home Ministry requesting an NIA probe.
Mamata Banerjee’s Recent Engagements
On the same day, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee visited junior doctors protesting outside the health building in Kolkata. The doctors have been on strike since September 10, and Mamata addressed them, stating, “My position is not important; the people’s position is. I am not the Chief Minister but your sister, meeting you.” She assured that she would ensure severe punishment for the culprits and promised no action against the protesting doctors. Mamata also declared that she would work with the CBI to ensure the culprits receive the death penalty and announced the dissolution of patient welfare committees in all state government hospitals.
Background on Ongoing Doctors’ Protest
Mamata has made three attempts to negotiate with the doctors. However, the doctors have rejected her proposals each time. The doctors have five key demands and four conditions, including the punishment of those involved in the crime and reforms in the healthcare system. They have demanded live broadcasting of meetings, asserting that the government has not provided a clear response to their demands.
Supreme Court Directive
On September 9, the Supreme Court ordered the doctors to end their strike by September 10 during the hearing of the Kolkata rape-murder case. The court warned of strict action for non-compliance, but the doctors have decided to continue their strike until their demands are met.
Doctors’ Continued Struggle
The junior doctors have opened an “Abhaya Clinic” outside the health building to provide medical care despite adverse weather conditions. They continue their protest, insisting they will not back down until justice is served.
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