Birbhum: Another explosion occurred in West Bengal's Birbhum district on Monday, raising concerns as the state government considers establishing a cluster for firecracker manufacturing units.
Following the afternoon explosion in Dubrajpur, a portion of a house's roof collapsed, and cracks appeared in the structure.
Local residents have identified the house as belonging to Sheikh Safik, a Trinamool Congress (TMC) worker who, according to reports, is currently on the run. Safik is not only associated with the TMC but is also a member of the local panchayat, according to the locals.
An anonymous local resident stated, "The explosion was so intense that a young girl in a nearby house fainted and had to be hospitalized."
Cracks developed in neighbouring houses
Police have observed small cracks in neighboring houses as well. However, the exact cause of the explosion is yet to be determined, and an investigation is underway.
Although the reason behind the explosion remains unconfirmed, local residents allege that the blast was caused by bombs allegedly stored inside the house.
A week prior to this blast, there was an explosion at an illicit firecracker factory situated in the East Midnapore district of West Bengal on May 16.
9 died last week in explosion at cracker factory
Out of the injured individuals, nine were pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital, while the remaining nine were admitted for treatment. The case is being investigated by the CID, and the West Bengal government has announced a compensation of Rs 2.5 lakh for the families of the deceased.
The firecracker factory had been raided last month, and legal action was taken against its owner. However, according to police sources, the factory managed to continue its operations despite the enforcement measures.
The CID apprehended two suspects the day after the blast at the firecracker factory. An FIR was lodged against the primary accused, Bhanu Bag, who was the owner of the factory.
Involvement of former TMC leader was suspected
Sources indicate that Bhanu Bag, a former member of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) Panchayat, was present at the accident site shortly before the explosion occurred. However, the main accused in the case, Krishnapada Bag, also known as Bhanu Bag, sustained critical injuries and passed away in Odisha.
After the blast at his illegal firecracker factory, Krishnapada Bag had fled the state and sought medical treatment in Cuttack, Odisha.
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