Kolkata Pandal Stampede: 19 Dead; CM Announces ₹25 Lakh Aid and Govt Jobs
19 people died in a tragic stampede at Kolkata's Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal. CM Adhikari announces compensation and govt jobs.
A festive celebration turned into a nightmare in Kolkata as a massive stampede at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal claimed 19 lives. The tragedy, which occurred amidst the city's biggest festival, has left the state in mourning and sparked a political firestorm.
Heartbreaking Toll and Medical Emergency
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, while visiting the site of the disaster on Sunday, confirmed the grim statistics. Out of the 19 deceased, 17 people died on the spot, crushed in the chaos. The incident also left at least 25 people injured. While 24 of the injured are reported to be out of danger, one individual remains in critical condition, fighting for survival in the hospital.
The Chief Minister assured that the state administration is working tirelessly, even through the night, to support the bereaved families and ensure that the injured receive the highest quality medical care.
Massive Compensation Package
In a bid to support the victims' families, the state government has announced a comprehensive relief package:
- Families of the deceased: An ex gratia payment of ₹25 lakh and a guaranteed government job.
- The injured: A compensation of ₹5 lakh each.
- Medical expenses: The State government will cover the entire cost of treatment for all injured persons.
CM Adhikari mentioned that he has already met with members of the affected families, who expressed their trust in the current administration's handling of the crisis.
Investigation and High-Level Response
To ensure transparency and accountability, the Chief Minister announced that he will write to the Chief Justice of the Kolkata High Court to request the formation of a fact-finding committee. This specialized team will include the Special Task Force (STF) and forensic experts to conduct a thorough investigation into how the stampede occurred.
The tragedy has also drawn national attention. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has requested a detailed report from the Chief Secretary and has announced additional relief and compensation for the affected families. Furthermore, Union Home Minister Amit Shah cancelled his scheduled programs to visit the Medical College on Sunday morning.
Political Clash Over Past Tragedies
The incident has triggered a sharp political exchange. CM Adhikari launched a targeted attack on former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, questioning her record during previous Durga Puja seasons. He specifically pointed to incidents in 2025, alleging that 13 people died due to electrocution during the rains during the Puja festivities.
Adhikari questioned whether the former Chief Minister had visited the affected families at that time, further citing a devastating flood in North Bengal—from Darjeeling to Nagrakata—where 100 people reportedly perished. He accused the previous administration of negligence and dismissed attempts to politicize the current tragedy.
Safety Tightened Across West Bengal
In the wake of the Kolkata horror, puja organizers in other parts of the state are on high alert. In Siliguri, safety measures have been significantly ramped up. Organizers have deployed more volunteers, implemented continuous public announcement systems to manage crowds, and increased police presence at pandals to ensure smooth movement and prevent any repeat of the tragedy.