New Delhi, India – The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has forcefully denied any allegations of misconduct during its investigation into a 2022 blast case in Bhupatinagar, West Bengal. In a statement released on Sunday, the agency dismissed the accusations as “unfortunate” and emphasized that its actions were lawful and necessary as part of the ongoing probe into the creation of crude bombs.
According to the NIA, its team was subjected to a violent attack by a mob in Naruabila village while conducting searches related to the case. The agency described the attack as unprovoked and uncalled for, highlighting that the searches were conducted in the presence of independent witnesses and with the security cover of CRPF, including lady constables. The arrests made during the operation were carried out in accordance with all legal procedures.
Two individuals arrested in connection with the Bhupatinagar blast case have been remanded to NIA custody until April 10 by a court in Kolkata. The arrests came after a team of NIA investigators reportedly faced an attack by a mob in Bhupatinagar while attempting to apprehend two key conspirators involved in the blast case.
The explosion in December 2022 claimed the lives of three individuals in the area. The two accused persons have had their bail petition denied by the City Sessions Court, which granted NIA custody for further interrogation in relation to the blast. The incident has ignited a political controversy, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleging misconduct by the investigators, while the Opposition has accused the NIA team of being attacked by individuals allegedly affiliated with the TMC.
The NIA’s response to the allegations of unlawful actions underscores the importance of transparency and adherence to legal procedures in conducting investigations. The clash between law enforcement agencies and local communities highlights the challenges of maintaining public trust and cooperation in sensitive cases. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in handling criminal investigations and the delicate balance between ensuring justice and respecting the rights of individuals.