Two more arrested in Kaliganj bomb blast that killed 10-year-old during by-poll celebrations

Two more individuals have been arrested in connection with the bombing incident that led to the death of a 10-year-old girl in Kaliganj during the by-election celebrations. The accused, Bimal Sheikh and Jamir Sheikh, were apprehended late Friday night from the Katwa area in Bardhaman district. Both were already named in the FIR registered earlier. With this, the total number of arrests in the case has increased to seven.

The incident occurred on June 23 in Molandi village, hours after the Kaliganj by-poll results were announced. During a celebration reportedly organised by Trinamool Congress workers, bombs were allegedly thrown at a house belonging to a family affiliated with the CPI(M). In the explosion, 13-year-old Tamanna Khatun lost her life. The attack was reported to have taken place while the family was inside their home.

Following the incident, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her condolences on her official X handle and directed police officials to ensure immediate arrests and strict legal action. Within the next 24 hours, four accused were taken into custody. The fifth arrest was made the following day. The remaining two were arrested after continued investigation and search operations in neighbouring districts.

Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir visited the victim’s family in Molandi village after the incident. He offered an envelope containing money to the family, but the girl’s mother refused to accept it. She stated that she did not want money but justice for her daughter. This led to criticism of the MLA's actions.

Subsequently, the party’s state president Subrata Bakshi issued a show-cause notice to the MLA. According to party sources, the leadership has sought an explanation from him regarding the incident and his conduct. The investigation into the bombing and the circumstances surrounding it is ongoing, with statements being recorded and evidence being reviewed.