A crude bomb explosion occurred within a residential building in the New Town area of Kolkata, injuring one individual on the evening of July 18, 2026. The incident is being investigated by multiple agencies following the emergence of CCTV footage, which reportedly shows a man entering the premises with a bag shortly before the blast. This event has raised concerns about public safety in the densely populated Suparibagan locality.

The explosion took place around 8 pm in the Dakshin Narayanpur area, causing damage to parts of the residential structure. Residents were thrown into a state of panic as debris flew and the powerful blast reverberated throughout the vicinity. Initial investigations suggest that the explosion was likely caused by crude bombs or explosive materials stored within the ground-floor room where the bag had been left.

Investigative Actions Initiated

Following the explosion, personnel from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrived at the scene on July 19 to conduct a preliminary assessment. The NIA has reportedly taken suo motu cognisance of the matter and will compile an initial report for the Union Home Ministry. It remains to be seen whether the case will be transferred to the NIA for further investigation, or if it will continue under the jurisdiction of local police.

In addition to the NIA, state fire services, the Special Task Force, and the Bomb Disposal Squad from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) were deployed to secure the area and investigate the blast site. Authorities recovered two live crude bombs alongside remnants of other explosives and materials believed to be associated with bomb-making activities.

Detentions and Ongoing Investigation

As the investigation progresses, two individuals have been detained for questioning. Md Shamim alias Salim, the main suspect residing in Kamarhati, North 24 Parganas, reportedly remains at large. Local broker Shahenshah, who allegedly linked Salim to the property owner, is among those detained. The building owner, Zulfikar Ansari, indicated that Salim had intended to rent a room and had only been permitted to clean the premises while awaiting the completion of formal tenancy arrangements.

Ansari stated that Salim was introduced to him by Shahenshah, who is reportedly connected to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He emphasised that Salim was not granted complete access to the property and that the blast occurred prior to formalising any tenancy agreement. Meanwhile, witnesses, including a young man who carried the bag, reported that they were outside when the explosion occurred, sustaining injuries in the process.

As authorities continue to investigate, a focus is being placed on tracing the origin of the crude bombs and assessing whether they are affiliated with a broader network. The situation remains fluid as investigators work to gather more information and ensure public safety in the wake of this alarming event.

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