Kolkata: A major tragedy struck West Bengal as a portion of a Durga Puja pandal collapsed in Kolkata, triggering panic and a deadly stampede. According to latest reports, 17 people have lost their lives in the incident, while approximately 35 others sustained injuries. The disaster unfolded on the evening of Saptami inside the Chorbagan community Durga Puja pandal, turning festive celebrations into chaos. The resulting rush created a severe stampede among the gathered devotees. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari personally visited the hospital to check on the condition of the injured individuals.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Expresses Anguish
Prime Minister Narendra Modi voiced deep sorrow over the Kolkata disaster. In his statement, he noted that the stampede incident is extremely tragic and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The Prime Minister prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured and mentioned that the West Bengal government is providing all possible assistance to the affected families.
Home Minister Amit Shah's Remarks
Union Home Minister Amit Shah shared his grief, stating that he received the extremely distressing news of the stampede at the Chorbagan public Durga Puja pandal. He spoke with Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari regarding the situation. The Home Minister prayed for peace for the departed souls and stated that the administration is ensuring all possible medical treatment for the injured. He also announced that he would postpone all his scheduled programs in West Bengal for the following day to visit the hospital and meet the victims.
BJP National President Nitin Navin's Condolences
Bharatiya Janata Party National President Nitin Navin expressed deep distress over the loss of lives. He stated that his heart was heavily burdened by the tragic casualties resulting from the stampede at the Chorbagan public puja pandal. He prayed for the eternal peace of the departed souls, a swift recovery for the injured, and strength for the grieving families to endure the immense loss. He added that the administration is actively extending all necessary assistance to those affected.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari Details the Incident
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari provided details of the tragedy, stating that at least 17 people died and 25 others were injured in the stampede at a north Kolkata Durga Puja pandal on Saturday, with one of the injured in critical condition. Visiting the Calcutta Medical College and Hospital following the incident, the Chief Minister confirmed that 17 individuals were brought dead to the facility while 25 others were receiving treatment for injuries. He explained that an announcement made by the organizers of the community Durga Puja in Chorbagan, near Chittaranjan Avenue in north Kolkata, prompted an abrupt rush among devotees eager to move forward, leading to the fatal crush.
Former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Reacts
Former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed deep shock over the unfolding events at the Chorbagan puja pandal. She stated that hearing the news of the stampede-like situation caused her profound grief and shock. She prayed to Goddess Durga for the speedy recovery of all injured persons and for strength and courage to be granted to their families during this difficult time.
