Kolkata: A tragic accident took place during Durga Puja in Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal. At least 19 people were killed in a stampede at Chorbagan Sarvajanin Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata on the evening of Saptami, while more than 35 people are said to be injured. The incident occurred on October 17 at around 7:40 pm. At that time, a large number of devotees were present in the pandal and it was also raining in the area. According to Kolkata Police, this accident happened at the exit gate of Sarada Park (Chorbagan) Durga Puja pandal of Girish Park police station area.
Due to the large crowd, suddenly a scuffle started among the people. In some reports, there has been talk of collapse of a part of the pandal due to increasing crowd pressure. However, all the reasons for the accident are yet to be confirmed. As soon as information about the incident was received, police, fire department and disaster management teams reached the spot. The injured were taken to Calcutta Medical College and Hospital for treatment. After the accident, movement of people was stopped in the pandal.
Questions raised on narrow gate and low lighting
According to eyewitnesses, there was a huge crowd in the pandal. Some people said that many devotees fainted and were taken to the hospital on motorcycles. Another eyewitness noted narrow entry and exit points as well as a lack of adequate lighting. The West Bengal government has issued a helpline number 18003455678 to assist the affected people.
Prime Minister announced compensation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced to give Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund to the families of those who lost their lives in the accident. At the same time, an assistance amount of Rs 50 thousand will be given to the injured.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, Chief Secretary Manoj Aggarwal and Health Minister Sharadwat Mukherjee reached the hospital and took stock of the arrangements for the treatment of the injured. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed grief over the incident and informed about postponing his scheduled Bengal tour.
Pooja committee officials resigned
After the accident, General Secretary of Chorbagan Durga Puja Committee Jayant Banerjee and other officials resigned from their posts. Despite continuous rain, a crowd of devotees had gathered in the pandal. This incident has raised serious questions regarding crowd control, security arrangements and emergency arrangements during the festival.