Kolkatta - A fatal explosion at an illegal firecracker factory in Duttapukur, located in West Bengal's North 24 Paraganas district, has claimed the lives of at least seven individuals. This tragic incident follows closely after the Egra blast that rocked the region. The blast not only led to loss of lives but also caused significant damage to several nearby residences.
As the news unfolded, Asis Ghosh, the Fire Station Officer, confirmed the recovery of five bodies from the site thus far. In response to the catastrophe, both the police and a bomb disposal team swiftly reached the blast location in Duttapukur to manage the situation.
The incident prompted a sharp reaction from Suvendu Adhikar, a prominent BJP leader, who criticized Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for allegedly prioritizing the protection of wrongdoers and engaging in divisive politics rather than addressing critical issues like these. Adhikar remarked, "It's not just this factory; the entire state is steeped in such an environment. Despite the Chief Minister's assurances of shutting down illegal factories, her actions indicate a different focus – one on shielding wrongdoers. She is more occupied with meetings with religious leaders and playing the communal card."
Echoing concerns, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhary, a leader from the Congress party, raised serious allegations against the Bengal government, suggesting that its lax regulations have created an environment where the use of explosives goes unchecked. Chowdhary contended that the government's leniency has paved the way for a hazardous trade, resulting in a series of deadly explosions and casualties.
He emphasized, "The quantities of explosives being found make it evident that the Bengal government has permitted their unrestricted use. Traders involved in the explosive trade seem to operate with complete impunity. This series of deaths and explosions underscores the government's failure. Following a blast, there is a fleeting outcry, but the illegal trade persists as the government remains inactive and the public bears the consequences."