Mamata hints at sabotage in train accident

Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee was "suspicious" about the cause of the accident involving Sealdah-bound Uttarbanga Express and Vananchal Express at Sainthia station in Birbhum district early on Monday.

"I am suspicious about the cause of the accident," Banerjee told reporters here when asked about the circumstances that led to the mishap.

"We have some doubt in our mind. Whatever happened is not casual thing. We will take all strong step against those who are behind this," she said before proceeding for the accident site.

She, however, did not elaborate, but said that she had ordered an inquiry.

She also announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh and employment to one member of each family of the dead.

The seriously injured would receive Rs 1 lakh and those with minor injuries Rs 25,000, she said.

The incident comes within two months of the Jnaneshwari train disaster near Jhargram that left 148 dead. The Railway Minister had alleged a 'political conspiracy' behind it.

The Trinamool Congress smelt a conspiracy behind repeated train mishaps in the state and demanded a thorough probe by the union government and the Railways. Congress chief whip Asit Mal dubbed the demand for Banerjee's resignation as politically motivated and alleged that the attempt to politicise the tragic incident was not proper even as Speaker H A Halim expressed concern over frequent train accidents.

Halim said there was something wrong somewhere but did not apportion any blame or hint at any conspiracy. Raising the issue, senior CPI-M member Robin Mondal alleged that the only aim of the Railway Minister seemed to be how to become chief minister after the 2011 Assembly polls. (Agencies)