Kolkata, India – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) faced a violent assault in Bhupatinagar, East Midnapore, resulting in injuries to a team member and damage to agency vehicles. The incident occurred as the NIA team was returning after detaining two Trinamool Congress leaders accused of involvement in a blast that claimed three lives in December 2022.
The NIA reported that an aggressive crowd obstructed their team and security personnel from reaching the Bhupatinagar Police Station. Despite lodging a complaint with local authorities, tensions escalated as residents attempted to block the NIA team during extensive searches at multiple locations. The NIA stated that one of its members sustained minor injuries, and their vehicle was damaged during the altercation with the crowd.
The investigation revealed that the detained individuals had conspired to manufacture and detonate crude bombs to incite terror. Both suspects actively participated in the bomb-making conspiracy, leading to their arrest. The NIA conducted extensive searches at five locations, including the home of one of the suspects, where local residents attempted to block the team.
In response to the attack, the Election Commission of India (ECI) has requested a detailed report from the district magistrate of East Midnapore. This incident marks the second assault on a central investigating agency in West Bengal within a short span, following a previous attack on ED and CAPF personnel in Sandeshkhali.
The BJP has reacted strongly to the incident, claiming it was a “state-sponsored attack” and accusing Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of inciting violence to obstruct the investigation into the 2022 blast case. Party spokespersons have condemned the attack on NIA officials, alleging a deliberate attempt to impede the probe into the bombing incident. The BJP leader further criticized the ruling party, referring to the incident as evidence of a problematic mindset within the government.
The incident in Bhupatinagar has raised concerns about political violence, obstruction of justice, and the protection of radical elements in West Bengal. The clash with the NIA team underscores ongoing tensions and challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in the region. The ECI’s call for a detailed report reflects the gravity of the situation and the need for accountability in addressing attacks on investigative bodies.