19 Fatalities in Kolkata Stampede During Durga Puja Festival
A tragic stampede at a Durga Puja gathering in Kolkata has resulted in at least 19 deaths and numerous injuries amid heavy rainfall.
The stampede occurred during the Durga Puja festival in Kolkata, claiming 19 lives.
West Bengal's Chief Minister announced a special investigation into the incident.
Prime Minister Modi expressed condolences and announced compensation for victims' families.
A tragic incident unfolded in Kolkata on Saturday night during the Durga Puja festival, where a stampede resulted in the deaths of at least 19 individuals and left 25 others injured. The chaos erupted as worshippers sought shelter from sudden rainfall, leading to a rush near a pavilion that housed idols of the goddess Durga.
The stampede took place in the capital of West Bengal amid large crowds celebrating the annual Hindu festival. According to police reports, the situation escalated when an announcement triggered panic among the crowd, causing many to push forward, resulting in several people falling and being trampled.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari visited the injured at Kolkata Medical College and Hospital, where he confirmed the fatalities, including a seven-year-old girl. He stated that a special investigation team, led by a high court judge, would be formed to examine the circumstances surrounding the disaster. Additionally, police have detained several pavilion organizers and security personnel as part of the investigation into crowd management failures.
The stampede occurred at a Durga Puja pandal, a temporary structure that attracts thousands of devotees during the festival. Following the incident, authorities have recommended the temporary closure of several heavily attended venues in Kolkata to ensure public safety. The police indicated that the combination of heavy crowds and rainfall contributed to the tragic event.
In response to the disaster, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the incident, extending condolences to the bereaved families and wishing the injured a swift recovery. His office announced compensation of 200,000 rupees for the families of the deceased and 50,000 rupees for each injured individual. Interior Minister Amit Shah assured that the administration is providing all necessary medical assistance to those affected. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding crowd safety at large gatherings in India, where similar tragedies have occurred in the past.
