Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee was 'suspicious' about the cause of the accident involving Sealdah-bound Uttarbanga Express and Vananchal Express at Sainthia station in Birbhum district early Monday morning.

"I am suspicious about the cause of the accident," Banerjee told media persons in Kolkata when asked about the circumstances that led to the mishap.

"We have some doubts in our mind. Whatever has happened is not a casual thing. We will take strong steps against those

who are behind this," she said.

Mamata, however, did not elaborate, but said that she had ordered an inquiry.

She also announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh and employment to one member of the family of each of the dead. The seriously injured would receive Rs 1 lakh and those with minor injuries Rs 25,000, she said.

The incident comes within two months of the Jnaneshwari train disaster near Jhargram that left 148 dead. The Railway Minister had alleged a 'political conspiracy' behind it.