At least 19 people were killed and 25 injured in a stampede at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal in north Kolkata during Maha Saptami celebrations on Saturday evening.
The incident occurred around 8 PM on October 17, when heavy rain and a sudden rush of devotees reportedly led to overcrowding and panic inside the pandal, triggering a stampede-like situation.
The injured were admitted to Kolkata Medical College and Hospital, R-G Kar Medical College and Hospital, and NRS Medical College and Hospital for treatment.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, accompanied by senior officials, visited the hospitals and announced ₹25 lakh compensation and a Group D government job for the family of each deceased person.
The Chief Minister said preliminary findings indicate that a public announcement at the venue may have triggered a sudden, uncoordinated movement of visitors, leading to the tragedy.
The state government has ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a sitting judge of the Calcutta High Court. The panel will include officials from the STF, CID and other departments.
Police have detained organisers, private security personnel and other staff on duty for questioning. CCTV footage from the site has been seized and is being examined as part of the investigation.
Authorities said strict action would be taken against those found responsible for lapses in crowd management.
