Kaliganj Vote Counting Marred By Tragedy: Girl Killed In Bomb Blast Near Counting Centre

Kaliganj Vote Counting Marred by Tragedy: Girl Killed in Bomb Blast Near Counting Centre

By Staff Reporter | ReportBuzz | Kaliganj | June 24, 2025

What should have been a straightforward day of vote counting in Kaliganj turned horrific just before noon when a sudden explosion claimed the life of a young girl barely a few hundred metres from the counting centre.

The incident, which sent shockwaves through the town, took place while election officials were in the thick of counting votes for the Kaliganj Assembly by-election — a high-stakes contest between the ruling TMC and opposition BJP.

Locals say the blast occurred near a quiet lane behind a cluster of houses where children were playing. The girl, believed to be around 10 years old, sustained critical injuries and was declared dead at the hospital.

“I heard a loud bang and ran out. We saw smoke. People were screaming,” said a nearby resident. “We didn’t know what had happened until we saw the child.”

 Police Launch Probe, CM Orders Action

The explosion immediately triggered a wave of concern from the highest levels of government. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who was informed during a cabinet briefing, condemned the incident and instructed the police to act swiftly.

“This is an absolute tragedy. A child’s life has been lost. I’ve directed the police to take strict and immediate action. No one should have to die like this, least of all during an election,” Banerjee said in a press note.

A forensic team and bomb squad arrived at the scene shortly after, sealing off the area. Police sources say it's too early to confirm whether the blast was linked to political tensions in the area, but an investigation is underway.

 Counting Continues Under Tight Security

Despite the chaos, vote counting continued under heavy police presence. Tension was high at the counting centre, but officers confirmed there were no disruptions inside.

As of 2 PM, Trinamool Congress (TMC) was leading in early rounds, though margins remained slim. A full result is expected by evening.

Observers noted that this bypoll has drawn unusual intensity, with both major parties throwing their full weight behind the campaign  often leading to unrest in surrounding blocks.

 A Town in Mourning, A State on Edge

Back in the neighbourhood where the blast occurred, people gathered quietly outside homes, many still unsure who was responsible — or why it happened.

“No child should die because of adults fighting over power,” said a woman who wiped her eyes while watching the ambulance leave.

The local administration has announced compensation for the girl’s family. The District Magistrate is expected to brief media by 4 PM.