In the wake of a devastating high-intensity explosion outside the Red Fort Metro station in New Delhi on Monday, which claimed at least eight lives and left several injured, the city of Kolkata was immediately placed on a state of high alert. The blast sent ripples of concern across the country, prompting swift security responses in major urban centers.
Kolkata Police Implements Stringent Security Measures
Kolkata Police Commissioner, Manoj Verma, announced that all police stations within the city have been instructed to maintain a heightened state of vigilance. Special emphasis is being placed on securing areas surrounding metro stations, which are critical transit hubs. “Instructions have also been issued to intensify naka checks and maintain strict surveillance on all entry and exit routes to the city,” Verma stated, outlining the proactive steps taken to prevent any potential threats.
This alert was not confined to the city limits alone. Similar directives were issued to district superintendents and local police units throughout the state of West Bengal, ensuring a coordinated security blanket.
Eden Gardens and Transit Hubs Under Scanner
Police sources revealed that security has been significantly tightened around major public venues. A senior state police officer confirmed that enhanced security protocols are in force in and around Eden Gardens and the hotel accommodating international cricketers for the upcoming India-South Africa Test match scheduled later this week.
The comprehensive security overhaul includes more frequent patrols, increased checks at transit hubs like railway stations and bus terminals, and closer coordination with central intelligence agencies. Officers have been tasked with monitoring sensitive locations and events meticulously, and verifying the identities of personnel at public venues and hotels.
The Eastern Railway also responded to the emergent situation by forming a Quick Response Team (QRT) to address any exigencies. All its divisions have been put on high alert and advised to maintain strict security vigilance on all trains.
Echoing these measures, the Kolkata Metro Rail Authority issued a separate alert, paying special attention to the security of metro stations across the city network.
Political Fallout and Demands for Resignation
The blast triggered immediate and sharp political reactions. Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kalyan Banerjee took to social media platform X to demand the resignation of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. “For the sake of our nation’s safety and dignity, Amit Shah should step down from his position as Home Minister. His continued failures and inability to ensure peace and security have deeply shaken people’s faith,” Banerjee wrote.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her shock and sorrow over the tragic incident. In a post on X, she stated, “Deeply shocked to hear about the tragic blast in New Delhi. My heart goes out to the families who have lost their loved ones, and I pray for strength and a swift recovery for all those injured.”
Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the blast site near Gate No. 1 of the Red Fort Metro station, arriving in a Hyundai i20 car, to assess the situation firsthand, underscoring the gravity of the event that has put the nation's security apparatus on edge.
