Kolkata Pandal Stampede: 19 Dead; CM Vows Legal Action Against Negligence
19 people, mostly children and girls, died in a stampede at Kolkata's Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal. CM Suvendu Adhikari vows strict action.
A festive celebration turned into a nightmare in Kolkata as a massive stampede at the popular Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal claimed 19 lives and left 25 others injured. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has asserted that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found responsible for negligence in the tragedy.
Tragedy Strikes Amidst Festivities
The incident occurred around 7:30 PM on Saturday, when a stampede-like situation erupted at the crowded venue. The human toll is particularly heartbreaking, with the Chief Minister confirming that most of the deceased were girls and children. Among the 25 injured, 24 are reported to be out of danger, while one person remains in critical condition.
Immediately following the incident, CM Adhikari visited the Medical College alongside state administration officials to review the medical condition of the victims and ensure they received the best possible care.
Investigation and Security Lapses
The Chief Minister also visited the site of the tragedy to assess the situation and oversee the preliminary investigation. The area has been sealed off to allow specialized teams to conduct their work.
Key details of the ongoing probe:
- Forensic and Special Teams: The forensic team, Special Task Force (STF), and the fire brigade are currently conducting an initial investigation at the site.
- CCTV Analysis: The Kolkata Police are studying CCTV footage to identify potential security lapses.
- Contributing Factors: CM Adhikari noted that while heavy rain played a part, there were also shortcomings in the arrangements made by the puja committee inside the venue.
"Whoever is found negligent will face legal action," asserted the Chief Minister.
Government Response and Compensation
In a move to support the bereaved and injured, the state government has announced a significant compensation package:
- For the Deceased: Each family that lost a loved one will receive Rs 25 lakh and one government job.
- For the Injured: Each injured person will be provided Rs 5 lakh in compensation.
- Medical Costs: The state government has taken full responsibility for all medical expenses related to the victims.
To ensure a transparent and impartial inquiry, the Chief Minister announced that a fact-finding committee will be formed under the leadership of a sitting judge of the Kolkata High Court. The government will initiate further action based on the committee's recommendations.
National Attention and Safety Measures
The tragedy has drawn attention from the highest levels of government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been informed of the incident, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is currently in Kolkata, is personally monitoring the situation.
As a mark of respect and in light of the tragedy, all programs scheduled for Sunday by the Union Home Minister and the state government have been cancelled. With approximately 58,000 pujas taking place across West Bengal, the Chief Minister emphasized that the government is taking urgent steps to ensure such a disaster is not repeated elsewhere in the state.