Kolkata Pandal Stampede: CM Announces SIT Probe as 19 Lives are Lost
West Bengal CM announces an SIT probe after a fatal stampede at a Kolkata Durga Puja pandal claimed 19 lives. Six people have been arrested.
In the wake of a devastating tragedy at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to uncover the causes of the fatal stampede. The incident, triggered by a massive surge of devotees, resulted in the deaths of 19 people and left several others injured.
Judicial Oversight for the Investigation
The Chief Minister revealed that the state is seeking high-level judicial oversight for the probe. He stated that the Chief Secretary will formally write to the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court to request permission to establish the SIT. Once approved, the team will operate under the leadership of a sitting judge to ensure a transparent and thorough investigation.
“An SIT is also being formed, which will operate under the leadership of a sitting judge. If permission is granted, we will constitute the SIT as soon as possible,” CM Suvendu Adhikari told reporters.
Arrests and Legal Action
Law enforcement has moved swiftly to hold those responsible accountable. While the CM mentioned six arrests, police reports indicate that seven individuals have been taken into custody. Those arrested include key members of the puja committee and personnel responsible for safety and crowd control:
- Raj Kumar Sewda (alias Raja): Secretary of the puja committee.
- Santanu Dubey: Vice-president of the committee.
- Biplab Mukherjee (alias Joy): Involved in the construction of the bamboo structure.
- Koushik Saha: Responsible for crowd management and VIP pass verification.
- Pintu Dey: Engaged in crowd management.
- Suman Chakraborty and Rajesh Pal: Private security in-charges.
The Kolkata Police have registered a suo motu case under Sections 105, 110, and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Additionally, fourteen other individuals have been detained for questioning, and the Special Task Force (STF) has launched its own investigation to establish accountability.
Casualties and Medical Status
The human cost of the disaster is staggering, with 19 confirmed deaths—18 of whom were residents of West Bengal. Out of the 25 people injured, 23 have begun the discharge process following treatment, while two remain in critical condition in the ICU.
To support the grieving families, the West Bengal government has announced a compensation package of Rs 25 lakh and a government job for the family of each deceased person. The CM further noted that teams consisting of the local MLA, police, and civil administration representatives are accompanying the families until the final cremation rites are completed.
Government Response and Safety Measures
The gravity of the situation drew visits from high-ranking officials, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Governor RN Ravi, who visited the injured at an Apollo hospital in Kolkata.
Chief Minister Adhikari emphasized that the entire government machinery is focused on the aftermath, stating that officials are not treating the period as a holiday. He highlighted a recent meeting focused on preventing further tragedies, specifically regarding the upcoming immersion processes at riverbanks. The government is now mandating the use of traditional, non-motorised boats and reviewing all potential safety shortcomings to protect the public.
Preventing Further Unrest
To maintain law and order and prevent any potential disturbances following the tragedy, Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, has been imposed in various parts of Kolkata from October 18 to October 20.