'Don't Politicise This': MoS Tokhan Sahu on Kolkata Pandal Stampede Tragedy
Union MoS Tokhan Sahu urges against politicising the Kolkata Pandal stampede that claimed 19 lives, praising the West Bengal government's response.
Union Minister of State (MoS) Tokhan Sahu has issued a strong appeal against the politicisation of the devastating Kolkata Pandal stampede, which claimed 19 lives at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata. Speaking to reporters on Sunday, the Minister emphasised that humanity should prevail over political agendas in the wake of such a massive tragedy.
A Call for Humanity and Unity
MoS Sahu stated that the primary focus should be on supporting those affected by the incident. He urged all parties to stand by the victims and their families out of a sense of compassion rather than using the event for political gain.
"In the wake of such a tragic incident, we must all stand by those affected, out of a sense of humanity. No one should politicise this," Sahu remarked.
The Minister further lauded the West Bengal Chief Minister for her swift and sensitive response, noting that the state government's decision to provide assistance and visit the injured demonstrated a high level of sensitivity. He reaffirmed that the central government stands in solidarity with the affected people.
Compensation and Investigation
The stampede occurred amidst overwhelming crowds at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal. In response to the loss of life, the West Bengal government has announced a compensation package of Rs 25 lakh for the family of each victim, along with the provision of a government job.
To ensure accountability, a Special Task Force (STF) has launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances that led to the stampede. The situation is being closely monitored by a high-level team, including the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), and the Commissioner of Police.
Security Measures and Restrictions
In an effort to maintain public order and prevent further chaos, the 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 place from October 18 to 20.
The order applies to the area under the Bowbazar Police Station, specifically bounded by:
- College Street
- CR Avenue
- Collotola Street
- Eden Hospital Road
Under these regulations, unlawful assemblies of five or more people are prohibited. The carrying of lathis, lethal weapons, or any dangerous objects is strictly forbidden to prevent breaches of peace or disturbances to public tranquillity.
Critique of Opposition Tactics
Beyond the tragedy in Kolkata, MoS Tokhan Sahu also addressed the ongoing protests by the opposition against Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) row. Sahu accused the opposition of attempting to mislead the public and incite chaos.
He argued that while dissent is a fundamental right in a democracy, it does not justify the creation of disorder. He claimed that the opposition is focused on fostering an environment of instability in Delhi to spread it across the nation, asserting that the country's current security is a result of Prime Minister Modi's leadership.