Tragic Bomb Blast Claims Lives in West Bengal's Birbhum District

Fatal Explosion in Hatia Village

Kolkata, June 21: A bomb explosion late Friday night in Hatia village, located in the Labhpur block of West Bengal's Birbhum district, resulted in the deaths of at least two individuals, as reported by local police on Saturday.

The blast occurred amidst ongoing violent confrontations between two rival factions allegedly engaged in criminal enterprises throughout the day.

According to district police sources, the conflict stemmed from a struggle for local control, with the explosion happening during a particularly fierce clash.

Birbhum Superintendent of Police Amandeep confirmed the fatalities and stated that an investigation is currently in progress. However, the names of the deceased have not yet been released.

Local reports suggest that both victims were linked to the ruling Trinamool Congress party.

Additionally, villagers indicated that several others sustained injuries from the blast, although police have not verified this information and are keeping details under wraps.

Hatia village has a notorious history of gang conflicts, with both factions reportedly involved in the illegal production of counterfeit coins intended for collectors. The groups are believed to be led by Sheikh Mainuddin and his associate Sheikh Mustafi on one side, while Sheikh Munir heads the opposing faction.

Villagers noted that Munir had recently gained dominance, forcing Mainuddin and Mustafi to avoid the area for a period.

On Friday afternoon, tensions flared again when Mainuddin and Mustafi attempted to return to Hatia but were confronted by Munir's group. This led to a series of clashes throughout the day.

Later that night, Mainuddin and Mustafi reportedly returned armed with weapons and crude bombs, resulting in a significant confrontation.

During this altercation, a cache of crude bombs exploded, leading to the deaths of two individuals and injuring others.

Authorities have yet to determine the precise cause of the explosion or the identities of the victims. The atmosphere in the village remains charged, with further investigations ongoing.