5 BJP Workers Injured in Bomb Blast Near RG Kar Victim's Mother Ratna Debnath’s House

Tensions have escalated in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district after five BJP supporters were injured in a crude bomb attack in Panihati. The incident, which took place late Wednesday night, has further fueled the political volatility currently gripping the region.

Attack Near St. Xavier’s Institution

According to local law enforcement, the blast occurred near St. Xavier’s Institution while a group of BJP workers were interacting with residents on Dutta Road in Ward 2. Witnesses reported that unidentified assailants on motorcycles targeted the group, hurling crude bombs before speeding away from the scene.

“The bomb blast occurred near St. Xavier’s Institution in Panihati. Unidentified assailants hurled crude bombs at a group of BJP workers, injuring at least five people,” police confirmed on Thursday.

The victims were rushed to the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata for treatment. Interestingly, the site of the explosion is close to the home of newly elected BJP MLA Ratna Debnath, the mother of the RG Kar Hospital rape victim.

Retaliatory Violence Allegations

This bombing followed just hours after the targeted killing of Chandranath Rath, a personal assistant to senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari. Rath was shot dead by motorcycle-borne gunmen earlier on Wednesday, an assassination that the BJP claims triggered a wave of retaliatory violence orchestrated by the Trinamool Congress (TMC).

The BJP has alleged that the Panihati attackers were backed by the ruling party. However, the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC has denied any involvement in the incident.

Police Investigation and Security Measures

In a significant breakthrough regarding the murder of Suvendu Adhikari’s aide, police seized a vehicle on Thursday linked to the investigation. Meanwhile, a massive security presence has been established in Panihati to prevent further clashes.

A senior police official provided an update on the blast investigation:

“We have started an investigation and are examining CCTV footage from the surrounding areas to identify those involved. Raids are being conducted to nab the accused.”

Authorities are currently on high alert to ensure stability in the area. “We are maintaining strict vigil and appealing to people not to spread rumours. Necessary steps are being taken to maintain peace,” the officer added.

Also Read: Chandranath Rath Murder Case: Bengal Police Form Special SIT Led By CID IG, Three Detained