Kolkata Durga Puja Stampede: Nitin Nabin Mourns 19 Dead, SIT Probe Launched
BJP's Nitin Nabin expresses grief over the Kolkata Durga Puja stampede that killed 19. Police arrest 7 as SIT probe begins.
In the wake of a devastating tragedy that has cast a shadow over the festive spirit of West Bengal, BJP National President Nitin Nabin has expressed his deepest condolences to the families affected by the Kolkata Durga Puja stampede. The horrific incident, which took place at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal, resulted in the loss of 19 lives and left numerous others injured.
Nitin Nabin Expresses Grief and Solidarity
Speaking on the tragedy, Nitin Nabin described the event as a "tragic event for all of us" that has deeply saddened the nation, particularly given the joy and enthusiasm typically associated with the Durga Puja celebrations in Bengal.
"I express my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. I pray that God grants them the strength to endure this loss. I also pray to God for the speedy recovery of all our brothers and sisters in Bengal who have been injured in this incident," Nabin stated.
Expressing confidence in the resilience of the state, Nabin added that Bengal would overcome this crisis and continue its journey toward progress, bolstered by the blessings of Maa Durga. He emphasized that the people of Bengal stand in a period of transition and growth after decades of struggle.
Police Action and Legal Proceedings
The stampede occurred on Saturday night in North Kolkata, triggered by a massive surge of devotees at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin pandal. The Kolkata Police have taken swift action, registering a suo motu case at the Girish Park Police Station. The charges have been filed under Sections 105, 110, and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against the organizers and other responsible parties.
Arrests and Detentions
Authorities have detained 14 individuals for questioning, with seven people already arrested. Those taken into custody include:
- Raj Kumar Sewda (alias Raja): Secretary (48)
- Santanu Dubey: Vice President (55)
- Biplab Mukherjee (alias Joy): Responsible for bamboo structure construction (48)
- Koushik Saha: In charge of crowd control and VIP pass checking (53)
- Pintu Dey: Involved in crowd control (51)
- Suman Chakraborty: Private security in-charge (30)
- Rajesh Pal: Private security in-charge (29)
Security Restrictions Imposed in Kolkata
To prevent potential unrest, violent demonstrations, or rallies, Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Nand has imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. These restrictions are in effect from October 18 to 20 in specific areas under the Bowbazar Police Station, including College Street, CR Avenue, Collotola Street, and Eden Hospital Road.
Under this order, the assembly of five or more people is prohibited, and the carrying of lathis or any dangerous weapons is strictly forbidden to maintain public tranquility.
Government Response and Compensation
State Cabinet Minister Umesh Rai has characterized the disaster as a "case of mismanagement." In response, the West Bengal government has taken the following steps:
- SIT Formation: A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to conduct a thorough inquiry into the cause of the stampede.
- Financial Aid for Deceased: An ex-gratia payment of Rs 25 lakh and a government job for the next of kin of each victim.
- Aid for Injured: Financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh for every person injured in the incident.
Further highlighting the gravity of the situation, Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit the injured victims currently receiving medical treatment in the hospital.