Kolkata Pandal Stampede: CM Holds High-Level Meet After 19 Dead
West Bengal CM holds high-level meeting after a tragic stampede at a Kolkata Durga Puja pandal killed 19. Compensation and arrests announced.
Following a devastating Kolkata pandal stampede that claimed 19 lives and left 25 others injured, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari convened a high-level emergency meeting with senior officials on Sunday. The tragedy occurred at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata, where massive crowds led to a fatal crush.
Emergency Meeting at Bhawani Bhawan
The Chief Minister met with top administration and security officials at Bhawani Bhawan to review the situation and discuss the lapses that led to the tragedy. Those in attendance included the Chief Secretary, the Home Secretary, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, and representatives from various government departments.
VIP Visits to the Injured
The gravity of the situation drew attention from the highest levels of government. Earlier on Sunday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister Adhikari visited Apollo Hospital in Kolkata to check on the condition of the injured victims.
Additionally, West Bengal Governor RN Ravi visited a hospital in the city to meet the survivors, inquiring about their treatment and praying for their swift and complete recovery.
Compensation and Legal Action
In response to the loss of life, the West Bengal government has announced a significant relief package. The family of each deceased victim will receive:
- Compensation of Rs 25 lakh.
- A government job for one family member.
Law enforcement has already begun cracking down on those responsible. The Kolkata Police have arrested seven individuals in connection with the stampede. To ensure a thorough probe, the Special Task Force (STF) has launched an investigation to establish accountability and determine exactly how the incident occurred.
Security Restrictions Imposed in Kolkata
To prevent further unrest and maintain public order, Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Nand has imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, in specific parts of the city. These restrictions are in effect from October 18 to October 20.
Areas Under Restriction
The order specifically applies to the jurisdiction of the Bowbazar Police Station, bounded by:
- College Street
- CR Avenue
- Collotola Street
- Eden Hospital Road
Prohibited Activities
Under the current order, the following are strictly prohibited to avoid violent demonstrations or rallies:
- Unlawful assemblies of five or more persons.
- Carrying lathis, lethal weapons, or any dangerous objects.
- Any acts that could breach peace or disturb public tranquillity.
The restrictions will remain in place for three days or until further orders are issued by the authorities.