Tragedy Strikes Kolkata Durga Puja Pandal as Stampede Claims Lives
A tragic stampede at a Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata has resulted in multiple casualties. Leaders express condolences as investigations begin.
Kolkata, October 17 (Daily Kiran) : A tragic incident occurred during the Durga Puja celebrations in Kolkata, where a stampede at the Chorabagan pandal led to the deaths of 17 individuals, with 25 others injured. The event has drawn widespread condemnation and condolences from various political leaders.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi expressed his sorrow over the incident on social media platform X, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life in the stampede at the Durga Puja pandal in Chorabagan, Kolkata. My heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved families. I pray for the swift recovery of the injured and strength for all affected by this tragedy.”
JP Nadda, another Union Minister, also shared his condolences, writing, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic stampede that occurred in Chorabagan, Kolkata. Local authorities are conducting rescue and relief operations at war footing. My heartfelt sympathies are with the affected families, and I pray for the safety and well-being of all impacted.”
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis added, “The horrific incident at the Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata is extremely tragic. I pay my heartfelt tribute to those who lost their lives. My deepest condolences to the grieving families. May God grant peace to the departed souls and quick recovery to the injured.”
Former Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan described the stampede as a heartbreaking event, expressing his condolences to the families of the victims. He prayed for divine peace for the departed and swift healing for those injured.
BJP leader Samik Bhattacharya characterized the situation as “extremely tragic and distressing.” He emphasized the need for sensitivity and patience during this difficult time, calling for a fair investigation into the incident. Initial reports suggest that the stampede was triggered by announcements made by private security personnel and the sounding of sirens. Bhattacharya noted the importance of not jumping to conclusions before the investigation is complete, commending Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari for advocating a thorough and transparent inquiry.
He further reported that members of the puja committee and security agency staff have been taken into custody, and an investigation into every aspect of the incident is underway. “It is crucial to stand with the victim’s families and provide them with all necessary assistance. Rather than engaging in political rhetoric, our collective priority should be to support the affected families, uncover the truth, and ensure that those responsible are held accountable under the law. A transparent investigation, humanitarian aid, and justice are our top priorities at this moment,” Bhattacharya stated.
BJP MP Jyotirmay Singh Mahato expressed his sorrow on X, calling the news of the stampede “heart-wrenching and distressing.” He offered his heartfelt tributes to the deceased and sympathies to the grieving families, praying for peace for the departed souls and strength for those mourning this unbearable loss.
