Even at midday, Molandi village in West Bengal’s Nadia district feels frozen in fear. The silence that hangs over the settlement tells the story of a family living under constant threat after the death of nine-year-old Tamanna Khatun in a crude bomb blast during the Kaliganj Assembly bypoll victory procession on June 23, 2025.
A child killed in political violence
Tamanna, a Class IV student, was playing under a mango tree in her courtyard when a bomb allegedly thrown during a Trinamool Congress victory rally exploded, killing her on the spot. Her parents, Hossein Sheikh and Sabina Sheikh, allege that local party workers were involved. Police later arrested several accused, including a local party booth committee president and his relatives, but the family says the main accused remain at large.
Family lives under police guard
Since the incident, the family’s house has remained under round-the-clock police protection, with CCTV cameras and a nearby temporary outpost. Despite this, fear dominates daily life. The family alleges they continue to receive threats to withdraw the case, warning that they could be killed if they persist.
Mother’s mental health crisis
The prolonged stress and lack of arrests allegedly pushed Sabina Sheikh into a mental health crisis. In late December, she attempted to end her life by consuming multiple medicines. She was first treated at local government hospitals before being shifted to Kolkata for further care.
Allegations against police actions
Residents claim that in July, police conducted midnight raids in Molandi, entering homes without warrants and assaulting women and minors. Two villagers who protested demanding justice for Tamanna were also arrested, raising allegations of intimidation. Police later filed a chargesheet in September, but locals say fear still controls the village.
Legal battle continues
Dissatisfied with the investigation by West Bengal Police, the family has approached the Calcutta High Court seeking a CBI probe. Procedural delays, however, have prolonged their wait for justice.
Standing by her daughter’s grave, Sabina remains resolute: “They can offer money or threats. We will not be sold.”