Kolkata Pandal Stampede: 12 of 14 Injured Stable; Most to be Discharged Monday
12 of 14 injured in the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja stampede are stable. Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited the victims at Apollo Hospital.
In a glimmer of hope following the tragedy at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal, medical officials have confirmed that the majority of the injured are recovering. Out of the 14 patients admitted to Apollo Hospital in Salt Lake after the Kolkata pandal stampede, 12 are now reported to be in stable condition, with most expected to return home on Monday.
Medical Update: Recovery and Critical Care
Dr. Narayan Banerjee provided a detailed update on the health of the victims on Sunday. He revealed that while the overall outlook is positive, a few patients still require intensive care and specialized attention.
- ICU and Ward Status: Five patients are currently being treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), while the remaining nine are recovering in the general ward.
- Critical Cases: Two patients remain under close monitoring. One particular patient is suffering from a fractured pelvis and urethra.
- Pediatric Care: A 13-year-old girl was among those admitted; however, doctors have confirmed that she is doing fine.
Dr. Banerjee noted that except for the patient with the pelvic fracture, most victims have not suffered serious internal injuries. While the majority will likely be discharged on Monday, those requiring surgery will remain under hospital care.
High-Profile Visits and Government Response
The gravity of the situation drew the attention of top leadership. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari visited Apollo Hospital on Sunday to check on the recovering patients.
Expressing his grief, Amit Shah described the stampede as "extremely distressing" and extended his heartfelt condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. The Home Minister also mentioned that he had been in communication with Adhikari to monitor the situation and ensure all necessary government support was provided.
The Tragedy and Legal Aftermath
The stampede occurred at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata, where a massive surge of devotees led to a fatal crush. The incident resulted in the tragic death of 19 people and left 25 others injured.
Police Action and Security Measures
In the wake of the disaster, the Kolkata Police have taken stringent measures to maintain peace and prevent further unrest:
- Prohibitory Orders: Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, has been imposed in various parts of the city from October 18 to October 20. This move aims to stop rallies, demonstrations, and meetings that could jeopardize public safety.
- Arrests Made: Seven individuals have been arrested in connection with the tragedy.
- Legal Charges: The police have registered a suo motu case against the organizers and others involved under Sections 105, 110, and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
An investigation is currently underway to determine the exact lapses that led to the stampede and to ensure accountability for the loss of lives.