100 crude bombs seized from house of TMC worker Rafiqul Islam

Incident ahead of second phase of voting in West Bengal

Kolkata – Amid the heated atmosphere of the West Bengal Assembly Elections, a major conspiracy involving violence has come to light. Police conducted a major operation in Bhangar, South 24 Parganas district, and seized 100 crude bombs from the house of Rafiqul Islam, a worker of the All India Trinamool Congress. Following the incident, tension spread across the area, and security has been tightened.

ECI takes a strict stand; NIA to investigate

Taking serious note of the incident, the Election Commission of India has adopted a strict stance. An official stated that warnings have been issued to all concerned authorities, including the Kolkata Police Commissioner and other senior officials. If any incidents involving explosives or intimidation occur, strict action will be taken against responsible officers. The Commission has also directed West Bengal Police to launch special drives to arrest those involved in bomb-making. Interestingly, all cases related to bomb manufacturing will now be investigated by the National Investigation Agency.

Police raids at 15 locations; 4 Muslims arrested

Following the recovery of bombs, the police arrested Sujauuddin, who allegedly manufactured crude bombs on demand. He revealed the involvement of his father, Saeed Ali, Abdul Halim, and others in the activity. Police have registered a case and are searching for additional accused. According to officials, there may be an organised network operating in the region. Subsequently, the police raided the Chhota Bankari area and seized 5 more crude bombs. A bomb disposal squad was called in, and the explosives were safely neutralised.

Earlier in March, one person was killed, and three others were injured in an explosion while making bombs.

4 TMC members arrested in Jagatdal violence case

In a separate incident of recent violence in Jagatdal, North 24 Parganas district, the police conducted raids at 15 houses and arrested four individuals—Kaushik Das, Sikandar Prasad, Gopal Raut, and Shyamdev Shaw—who are reportedly linked to the Trinamool Congress. Other accused individuals are still absconding.

Editorial Perspective

• The discovery of such a large number of bombs with a Trinamool Congress worker suggests the possibility of a large-scale manufacturing setup.
• Why are those who have previously demanded ban on Sanatan Sanstha over fake allegations in bomb incidents now not demanding ban on the Trinamool Congress?