Kolkata Stampede at Durga Puja Festival Claims at Least 17 Lives
A deadly stampede at the Durga Puja festival in Kolkata, India, resulted in at least 17 deaths and 25 injuries; 12 individuals have been detained in connection with the incident.
A tragic stampede occurred during the Durga Puja celebrations in Kolkata, eastern India, a significant Hindu festival. The incident, which took place on the evening of October 17, Saturday, led to the deaths of at least 17 people and left 25 injured. Authorities have detained 12 individuals in connection with the stampede and launched a comprehensive investigation.
Highlights
- At least 17 people died and 25 were injured in a stampede at the Durga Puja festival in Kolkata.
- West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari ordered an immediate inquiry to identify those responsible for the incident.
- Police have detained 12 people in connection with the stampede, which is believed to have been caused by overcrowding and sudden rain.
- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the incident as "extremely distressing" and announced compensation for the victims' families.
Details
The stampede occurred at the exit gate of the Sarada Park (Chor Bagan) Puja Pandal in the Girish Park Police Station area, exacerbated by a large crowd and sudden rainfall. Kolkata Police confirmed that the injured were taken to the hospital. Among the fatalities were 13 women and a child, a detail confirmed by West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, who also mentioned a seven-year-old girl among the deceased.
Chief Minister Adhikari stated that strict action would be taken against those who failed to ensure crowd safety. An independent investigation has been initiated, led by a sitting judge of the city's high court. Adhikari emphasized, "We will check the footage and take appropriate measures against those who failed to manage the crowd. That could be a member of the puja committee, a homeguard, a temporary worker, a policeman, or a private company security guard. Nobody will be spared."
Why it matters
While stampedes at religious and cultural festivals are not uncommon in India, this incident has raised serious concerns about safety during Durga Puja, the largest annual festival in West Bengal. Chief Minister Adhikari's government is under pressure to implement stricter safety measures to prevent such occurrences. Additionally, broader economic issues like food and fuel inflation in the country are dampening the overall festive spirit.