Nine-year-old girl killed in bomb blast during TMC victory rally in Kaliganj

Kaliganj, West Bengal – June 23, 2025: A celebratory moment turned into a tragic nightmare when a bomb exploded during a victory rally of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the Kaliganj area of Nadia district on Sunday. The blast claimed the life of a nine-year-old girl and left at least five others injured, triggering widespread shock, political blame games, and a demand for a thorough investigation.

Child Killed, Several Injured in Shocking Incident

According to local authorities, the incident occurred during a TMC victory procession following the party’s win in the recently concluded panchayat by-elections. The rally, organized in the Sahapur village under the Kaliganj police station limits, witnessed a sudden explosion around 4:30 p.m., when participants were distributing sweets and waving party flags.

The minor, identified as Riya Mondal, was playing near her house when the crude bomb exploded in the crowd. She was critically injured and rushed to the district hospital, where she was declared dead on arrival. Five others, including two women and a teenager, are undergoing treatment with varying degrees of injuries.

Police Begin Probe; CID Expected to Join

Kaliganj police have launched a preliminary investigation. Forensic teams have collected samples from the blast site, and early indications suggest the use of crude country-made explosives. Senior police officials have not ruled out foul play and indicated the possibility of political sabotage.

"The nature of the blast and its timing—during a political celebration—raise serious concerns. We are examining all angles," said a senior official from the Nadia district police. The West Bengal government has reportedly requested the CID to take over the case for a more detailed investigation.

Political Reactions: TMC, BJP Trade Charges

The tragedy has escalated into a political war of words between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). TMC leaders claimed the bomb was planted by opposition elements to disrupt their peaceful rally and create fear.

“This is a deliberate attempt to malign the TMC’s image. We demand a high-level probe. Innocent lives are being lost due to politically motivated violence,” said local TMC MLA Ashim Biswas.

On the other hand, BJP leaders accused the TMC of fostering a culture of political violence in Bengal. BJP state spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya alleged, “Bomb-making is routine in TMC-ruled areas. This is a result of their own internal gang wars and lawlessness. The people of Bengal are not safe under this government.”

Analysts Weigh In: Security and Political Volatility in Rural Bengal

Political analysts say the incident highlights the fragile law and order situation in Bengal's rural pockets. “Violence during or after elections has become disturbingly common in West Bengal,” remarked Dr. Sujata Roy, a political science professor at Jadavpur University. “This tragedy is not just a law and order issue, but a reflection of how deep-rooted political rivalries endanger even children.”

Security expert and retired IPS officer D. K. Ghosh emphasized the urgent need to clamp down on illegal arms and explosives in rural Bengal. “Crude bombs are not new to the state. Unless there is strong intelligence coordination and ground-level policing, such incidents will recur,” he warned.

Market Context: Impact on Regional Stability and Investment Perception

While such isolated incidents have minimal direct impact on national markets, continued political violence in Bengal could hinder investor sentiment at the regional level. Industry stakeholders believe that recurring law-and-order issues could stall infrastructure and rural development projects.

“Businesses looking to invest in the region, especially in agro-processing and rural logistics, consider political stability a key factor,” said an analyst from a Kolkata-based investment advisory firm. “With Bengal pitching for industrial revival and new MSME hubs, law and order will increasingly influence capital inflow.”

Investor Outlook: Need for Government Assurances

The incident comes at a time when West Bengal has been aggressively marketing its investment potential through global business summits and infrastructure push. Experts believe that while this incident may not directly influence large investors, it increases the risk premium for smaller ventures and startups operating in rural zones.

“State government must provide security guarantees and compensation for victims. Timely and transparent investigation will go a long way in restoring investor faith,” suggested Priya Nair, economist and consultant with a focus on emerging markets.

A Wake-Up Call

The tragic death of a nine-year-old during what should have been a peaceful democratic celebration underscores the critical need for stringent security measures, political accountability, and a united front against violence. Beyond politics, it is a reminder that the cost of instability is paid by the most innocent.

As Bengal reels from this horrific incident, citizens await justice, not just in the form of arrests or compensation, but through long-term commitment to peace and safety.