Train accident: Mamata hints at foul play

SAINTHIA - Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee Monday hinted at foul play behind the train accident in West Bengal that claimed at least 60 lives, saying she had “some doubt” in her mind.

Banerjee visited the accident spot at Sainthia, the Suri District hospital to meet the injured and a blood donation camp. She said the rescue operation was almost over.

“I have some doubt in my mind regarding how the accident was caused. We will talk about it after detailed investigation,” Banerjee told reporters.

The speeding Sealdah-bound Uttar Banga Express rammed into the stationary Bhagalpur-Ranchi Vananchal Express from the rear at Sainthia station in Birbhum district early Monday. At least 150 people were injured in the accident.

Asked whether she wanted a Central Bureau of Investigation probe, Banerjee said: “That I will tell you once the detailed investigation is over.”

She expressed gratitude towards the villagers who worked to rescue trapped train passengers. “Rescue operation is almost over. We need to understand how this accident took place within two months of the Gyaneshwari accident.”

On May 28, 148 people were killed when the Mumbai-bound Gyaneshwari Express derailed after Maoist guerrillas sabotaged the tracks near Jhargram in West Midnapore district. A speeding freight train then rammed into the derailed coaches leading to the high casualties.

“The Gyaneshwari incident took place two days before May 30 civic polls,” she said, hinting at a political motive behind the sabotage.

“I condole the death of so many people. There is no word to express grief for the kin of the death,” she added.