West Bengal Government Announces Compensation for Kolkata Tragedy Victims
West Bengal government pledges ₹25 lakh compensation for Kolkata tragedy victims as police detain 12 for questioning.
Kolkata, October 18 (Daily Kiran) : The West Bengal government has announced a compensation package of ₹25 lakh for the families of victims affected by the tragic stampede at the Chorabagan Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata. This announcement came from the Chief Minister’s Office on social media platform X, emphasizing that top officials, including the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, DGP, and Police Commissioner, are closely monitoring the situation.
In addition to the financial aid, the state has committed to providing jobs to the victims’ families. A Special Task Force (STF) investigation will be conducted to determine accountability. A helpline number, 1800 345 5678, has also been established for affected individuals.
As part of the ongoing investigation, police have detained 12 individuals, including event organizers and volunteers, for questioning. The stampede occurred during the Chorabagan public Durga Puja celebration, resulting in the tragic loss of 19 lives. A forensic team has since visited the scene on Mukhtarambabu Street, and at least 25 injured individuals are currently receiving treatment in state hospitals.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari inspected the pandal late Saturday night after meeting with the families of the deceased and injured at Calcutta Medical College. He announced that the government would provide ₹25 lakh in compensation and a government job to each family of the deceased. Furthermore, he stated that each injured person would receive ₹5 lakh, with the government covering all medical expenses at their chosen hospitals. An SIT, led by a sitting judge of the Calcutta High Court, will conduct the investigation, including members from the STF, CID, and other departments.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences on social media, announcing a compensation of ₹2 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives. President Droupadi Murmu also conveyed her sorrow, calling the deaths heartbreaking. Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated he is in contact with Chief Minister Adhikari regarding the incident.
