Kolkata Stampede Kills 19 at Durga Puja Pandal, Police Probe Crowd Control Lapses, Detain 12

A stampede at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata has left 19 people dead and several others injured, who are undergoing treatment at Calcutta Medical College. Police have launched an investigation into crowd management failures, examining CCTV footage and probing lapses by organisers and deployed police personnel. Twelve people, including puja pandal organisers, have been detained for questioning. Forensic teams have gathered evidence from the sealed site. Eyewitnesses and locals alleged inadequate police deployment, stating personnel were focused on VIP movement rather than general crowd management, alongside confusion regarding narrow entry and exit points. Sudden rainfall worsened conditions as devotees inside refused to leave while crowds outside rushed to enter, resulting in massive overcrowding and the fatal crush. Authorities announced financial compensation of 25 lakh rupees and a government job for the families of the deceased, alongside 5 lakh rupees and medical coverage for the injured.