Kolkata Durga Puja Stampede: 19 Dead, Over 40 Injured at Chorbagan Pandal

A tragic stampede at the famous Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in north Kolkata has reportedly claimed 19 lives and left more than 40 people injured. The deceased include 13 women, five men and one child, according to reports.

The incident occurred on Saturday evening when a sudden spell of rain triggered a rush of devotees seeking shelter and attempting to enter the pandal. The resulting overcrowding at the narrow entry and exit routes reportedly led to pushing and jostling, causing several people to fall and triggering the stampede.

Investigation Underway

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to the tragedy. Police are examining CCTV footage and assessing whether adequate arrangements were in place for crowd management, entry and exit, and public safety.

Access to the accident site has reportedly been restricted following the incident. The roles of the Durga Puja organising committee, private security personnel and officials deployed on duty are also being examined as part of the investigation.

The exact cause of the stampede remains unclear, and the findings of the investigation are awaited.

Financial Assistance Announced for Victims

The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari, has announced financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh for the family of each deceased victim. The government has also announced a government job for one member of each bereaved family.

In addition, injured victims will receive Rs 5 lakh each, and the government will bear their medical expenses.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also announced ex-gratia assistance from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). The families of those who died will receive Rs 2 lakh each, while those injured will be given Rs 50,000 each.

Durga Puja Committee Officials Resign

In the aftermath of the tragedy, several office-bearers of the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja Committee, including its general secretary, have reportedly resigned.

The incident has raised serious questions about crowd management and safety arrangements at major Durga Puja pandals, particularly during periods of heavy footfall and adverse weather.

Eyewitnesses Describe Chaotic Scenes

Eyewitnesses reported that repeated announcements were being made over the public address system, urging visitors to enter the pandal in an orderly manner and avoid pushing.

According to one woman who witnessed the incident, announcements warned that overcrowding and pushing could lead to a stampede.

The tragedy has renewed concerns over emergency exits, crowd-control measures and the adequacy of security arrangements at large religious gatherings.

As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to examine whether the narrow access routes and the sudden surge in visitors following the rain contributed to the deadly incident.