'Innocence Lost: The Devastating Impact of Bomb Violence on Children in West Bengal'**

An investigation reveals the grim reality of children being maimed and killed by homemade bombs in West Bengal, a situation fueled by the region's turbulent political landscape.**

Over the past 30 years, a staggering number of children in West Bengal have suffered horrific injuries or lost their lives due to homemade bombs, largely linked to political violence and elections in the region. The BBC Eye investigation uncovered that at least 565 children have been affected, with an average of one child falling victim to bomb violence every 18 days.

On May 6, 1996, during an election holiday, a group of boys from a Kolkata slum began playing cricket. In their quest to retrieve a lost ball, they discovered a bag containing six round objects that turned out to be bombs. Nine-year-old Puchu Sardar bravely batted one, leading to a catastrophic explosion that claimed the lives of two children and left Puchu with severe injuries requiring extensive hospital treatment.

The historical context of bomb-making in West Bengal dates back to its struggle against British rule, evolving into a weapon of political intimidation. The crude bombs of today, often fashioned to terrify opponents during elections, carry significant risks for local children who unwittingly encounter them while playing. Indeed, nearly 60% of recorded child casualties occurred during outdoor activities, with poor families disproportionately affected.

Further harrowing accounts highlight children like Poulami Halder and Sabina Khatun, who became victims after discovering bombs disguised as toys. They faced devastating physical injuries and long-term emotional and psychological impacts. In spite of their enduring struggles, both children remain hopeful for their futures, harboring aspirations of becoming teachers.

The societal and political response to this ongoing tragedy remains inadequate, as parties deny involvement in the proliferation of violence. Yet experts assert that the normalization of bomb use in elections exemplifies a broader neglect of children's safety. Pankaj Dutta, a former police inspector general, lamented the prevailing "extreme abuse of childhood," emphasizing that the responsibility lies with society to protect its most vulnerable members.

As new elections loom, the cycle of violence persists, leaving a wake of mourning families and shattered futures. The chilling reality remains that until political accountability increases, children in West Bengal will continue to pay the price for their leaders' actions.