Three people from Bengal killed in Pahalgam attack, Mamata offers condolences

West Bengal is mourning the loss of three of its residents who were among those killed in the terrorist attack at Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday. The victims have been identified as Bitan Adhikari from Baishnabghata in Kolkata, Sameer Guha from Behala in Kolkata, and Manish Ranjan from Jhalda in Purulia district.

The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has stepped in to provide full assistance to the grieving families. Ms. Banerjee announced that arrangements have been made at Delhi Airport to support the victims’ families and coordinate their travel to Kolkata. The mortal remains are expected to reach Kolkata by 8:30 pm today.

Expressing her condolences on social media, Mamata Banerjee stated that she had personally spoken to Bitan Adhikari’s wife to assure her of the government's support. She described the attack as an "inhuman act of terror" and extended her deepest sympathies to all the families affected by the tragedy.

Minister Aroop Biswas also visited the residence of Bitan Adhikari, informing the media that Bitan had recently returned to India from the United States for a family vacation. He reassured that the West Bengal government is coordinating with officials in Srinagar to bring back the mortal remains, which are expected by Thursday.

Sameer Guha, a central government employee, was on vacation with his wife and daughter when tragedy struck. According to relatives, Guha’s wife recounted that the terrorists demanded identification before opening fire. State officials have reached out to his family, offering every possible help during this period of immense grief.

Meanwhile, there is some confusion about the origins of Manish Ranjan. While West Bengal authorities confirmed his association with Purulia, Union Home Ministry records identified him as a native of Bihar. Regardless, the State government has assured full cooperation to assist his family.