North Dinajpur, 14 December (H.S.): A minor girl was killed in a violent clash between two groups over control of land in Islampur in North Dinajpur district of West Bengal. The incident, which involved bombing and gunfire, took place late Saturday night. The area is currently under heavy tension, and police forces have been deployed. Two people have been arrested so far in connection with the incident.

According to police sources, the deceased minor has been identified as Kausera Begum, aged 12. She was a resident of the Jhaljhali area under Matikunda No. 2 Panchayat of Islampur police station. She was a student of eighth grade.

Local sources said that a long-standing dispute over land ownership existed between Rafiq Alam and Noor Alam. The deceased girl's father, Zahid Alam, was a supporter of Rafiq Alam.

Allegedly on Saturday night, Noor Alam's men attacked Zahid Alam's house with bombs and gunfire. Zahid Alam's minor daughter, Kausera, was injured by shrapnel during the attack. She was immediately rushed to Islampur Sub-Divisional Hospital, where doctors on duty declared her dead.

Following the incident, the situation became tense. A large police contingent arrived at the scene after receiving the news and brought the situation under control. Tension remains high in the area on Sunday morning, and police personnel are deployed to prevent any further untoward incidents.

Trinamool Congress district president Kanailal Agarwal said, This unrest is due to an old land dispute. I have received the information and am going to meet the family.

Islampur Additional Superintendent of Police Denduk Sherpa said, The police reached the spot after receiving the information. An investigation into the incident is underway.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey