19 Killed in Kolkata Durga Puja Stampede, CM Announces ₹25 Lakh Relief, Seven Arrested

A tragic stampede at Kolkata's Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal has claimed the lives of 19 people and injured at least 25 others. The disaster occurred around 7:30 PM after sudden heavy rainfall prompted a rush into the pandal, causing a structural collapse and panic. Visitors scrambling for cover became trapped as incoming crowds clashed with those surging towards narrow exits. Chief Minister Shivendu Adhikari visited the injured at Kolkata Medical College, announcing a fact-finding committee, a special task force, a government job, and twenty-five lakh rupees compensation for the families of the deceased. Injured victims will receive five lakh rupees and complete coverage of medical expenses. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced two lakh rupees for the families of each deceased and fifty thousand rupees for the injured. Police have detained several organizers and arrested seven individuals amid allegations of severe crowd management lapses.