Political Fallout After Tragic Stampede at Durga Puja Pandal in West Bengal
Political reactions intensify following a tragic stampede at a Durga Puja pandal in West Bengal, with calls for compensation and accountability.
New Delhi, October 19 (Daily Kiran) : A tragic stampede at a Durga Puja pandal in Chorbagan, West Bengal, has sparked significant political outrage. Opposition leaders are accusing the government of negligence in ensuring safety during the festive season. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has expressed deep sorrow over the incident, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures in the future.
Awadhesh Prasad, a member of the Samajwadi Party, expressed profound sadness regarding the incident while speaking in Ayodhya. He noted that the repercussions of this tragedy extend beyond Kolkata, affecting the entire nation. With Durga pandals decorated across the country and celebrations underway, he described the occurrence as alarming. Prasad criticized the government for its laxity in safety protocols, which he believes led to this heartbreaking event. He has called for a compensation of at least fifty lakh rupees for the families of the deceased, stressing that those grieving should receive assistance. Furthermore, he demanded a thorough investigation into the matter, holding responsible parties accountable, and asserted that the government failed its duty to guarantee safety during the Navratri festival.
In Hyderabad, Congress leader V. Hanumanth Rao also targeted the government, pointing out its offer of a 25 lakh rupee ex gratia and job provisions. He emphasized that the primary concern should be preventing such incidents from happening again. “It is unacceptable that lives are lost first, followed by compensation and job offers. This reflects the current government’s failure. The new government must prioritize the safety of all citizens, as lives are of utmost importance,” he stated.
On the other hand, BJP national spokesperson Guru Prakash, while in Patna, described the incident as extremely tragic. He reassured the public that measures would be taken using CCTV cameras and all available resources to prevent future occurrences of such incidents. He urged everyone to remain vigilant and exercise caution during the festive season, advising the public to stay calm and composed when attending fairs or celebrations.
