Kolkata Horror: 19 Dead, 25 Injured in Chorbagan Durga Puja Stampede
A tragic stampede at North Kolkata's Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal has left 19 dead and 25 injured. STF probe launched and compensation announced.
A festive celebration turned into a nightmare in North Kolkata as a massive Chorbagan Durga Puja stampede claimed the lives of at least 19 people and left 25 others injured. The tragedy occurred at the crowded pandal, sparking chaos and grief during one of the city's most anticipated cultural events.
The Scale of the Tragedy
The horror unfolded as crowds surged at the Chorbagan pandal, leading to a fatal crush. According to official reports, 17 of the victims died on the spot, while others succumbed to their injuries later. A total of 25 people were injured in the melee and were rushed to the Medical College and Hospital for urgent treatment.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari provided a grim update on the casualties, stating that while 24 of the injured are currently out of danger, one person remains in critical condition. The Chief Minister emphasized that the government is working tirelessly, even through the night, to support the victims and their families.
Government Action and Compensation
In response to the disaster, the West Bengal government has announced a significant relief package for the bereaved families. Each family of a deceased victim will receive:
- Financial Compensation: Rs 25 lakh.
- Employment: A government job for one family member.
To assist those affected and provide information, the government has issued a dedicated helpline: 1800 345 5678.
STF Probe to Fix Accountability
The state government is not treating this as a mere accident. A Special Task Force (STF) probe has been initiated to investigate the causes of the stampede and to fix accountability for any lapses in crowd management or security.
The situation is being monitored at the highest levels of administration. The Chief Minister, accompanied by the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), and the Commissioner of Police (CP), is overseeing the recovery and investigation process.
Nationwide Grief
The tragedy has drawn condolences from across the country. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed his deep pain over the incident via a post on X, offering heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and praying for the speedy recovery of the injured.
"Deeply pained by the stampede in Kolkata. Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Prayers for the speedy recovery of those injured," wrote Dr. S. Jaishankar.