Kolkata Stampede Kills 19: TMC Slams BJP Over VIP Security, 7 Arrested

A stampede at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata claimed 19 lives and injured at least 25 others after sudden rain triggered a massive rush and part of the structure collapsed. Visitors scrambling for cover clashed with exiting crowds, turning the stairs near the exit gate into a fatal trap. Following the tragedy, police detained 14 people and arrested seven, including the pandal secretary and vice president. Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari announced a fact-finding committee and a special task force to probe the incident. Meanwhile, political controversy erupted as the Trinamool Congress attacked the state government, questioning crowd management and police priorities regarding VIP security during Union Home Minister Amit Shah's visit. TMC demanded accountability and targeted the pandal committee's alleged political links. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia compensation of two lakh rupees for the next of kin of the deceased and 50,000 rupees for each injured victim.