Drone-Like Objects Sighted Over Kolkata Sky; Police On High Alert

According to media reports, several drone-like objects were spotted in the skies above Kolkata, after which, the state police initiated an extensive investigation. These unidentified objects were seen on Monday night, primarily over the Hastings area, the Vidyasagar Setu, and Maidan, with reports suggesting between eight to ten unidentified flying objects were observed. This incident has prompted heightened security measures and a call for vigilance among officials.

In response to these sightings, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has heightened security protocols, especially in the northern regions of the state, cautioning against cross-border threats and the potential for espionage. The Chief Minister underscored the strategic sensitivity of the area, which borders Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, during a high-level administrative meeting as part of her three-day visit to the region. She emphasized the importance of increased patrolling to thwart any infiltration attempts by anti-national elements, despite the presence of the Border Security Force (BSF).

Government Response and Investigation Efforts

The Central government, concerned about the implications of such sightings, has requested a detailed report from the state government on the incident. Public relations officer for the Eastern Command of the Ministry of Defence, Himanshu Tiwari, stated, "Reports of drone sightings over Kolkata have been received and are currently under investigation. Efforts are underway to ascertain the veracity of this event. Further information will be shared as facts are established." He also urged the media to avoid speculation while the matter is being thoroughly examined.

Furthermore, the presence of unidentified flying objects over Kolkata's Park Circus area has led the Special Task Force (STF) and the Detective Department of the Kolkata Police to embark on an investigation, exploring every possible angle, including espionage. An officer involved in the investigation shared, "We are probing the matter from all angles, including the possibility of espionage."

Initially, the objects, resembling drones, were detected by personnel at the Hastings Police Station. They appeared to be coming from Maheshtala in the South 24 Parganas district and were observed hovering over key locations such as the Second Hooghly Bridge (Vidyasagar Setu) and Fort William, the army's Eastern Command headquarters. This has led to a comprehensive probe from all possible perspectives to uncover the nature and intent behind these drone-like sightings.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, apart from addressing security concerns, also highlighted the need for preparedness against natural disasters, urging officials to remain alert for potential flooding due to heavy rainfall. She stressed the importance of relying on government channels for disseminating information during crises to prevent the spread of misinformation and fake news.