Young Man Drowns in Floodwaters in Bhutni, Leaving Behind Three Minor Daughters

**Malda:** Local residents claim that the first death due to the flood in the Bhutni area of Malda has occurred in 2026. A young man has drowned in the floodwaters. The incident has cast a shadow of mourning over the Ballitola area of the South Chandipur Gram Panchayat under the Bhutni police station.

The deceased young man's name is **Dwijen Mandal (32)**. He was a farmer by profession. According to local sources, Dwijen was trying to move several jute bundles that were a bit far from his home to a safer location when he suddenly drowned in the water, as claimed by his family and neighbors.

Dwijen's neighbor, Phulkumar Mandal, claims that the accident happened while he was moving the jute bundles. Local residents quickly began searching the area upon seeing him drown. Later, the villagers recovered his body and brought it home.

The incident was reported to the Bhutni police and the block administration. The police have started an inquiry into the matter.

According to family sources, Dwijen Mandal was the primary breadwinner of a financially weak family. With his death, the family, including his wife and **three minor daughters**, is now in a state of extreme uncertainty. Local residents have requested government aid and necessary assistance while standing by the family.

On the other hand, the MLA of Manikchak, **Gourchandra Mandal**, has stated that a death has occurred in South Chandipur. The police administration is investigating the matter. He has also assured that the state government and they will stand by the family during this difficult time.

This drowning incident in the floodwaters has raised concerns in the area. Local residents believe that more caution is needed when moving through the inundated parts of the flood-affected area.