UPDATED: Oct 18, 2026 08:58 IST
A stampede at a Durga Puja pandal in Chorbagan, Kolkata, resulted in nineteen deaths, prompting calls for an investigation into the cause and crowd management lapses. The state leadership, including the chief minister, health minister, and chief secretary, visited the location, while medical assistance was arranged for the injured. Officials stated that negligence contributes to such tragedies at major religious gatherings. Following the incident, Durga Puja committees across the state have been instructed by the administration to reassess crowd control measures, including entry and exit routes, ensuring devotee safety remains paramount alongside artistic displays.
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Chorbagan Stampede: 19 Dead in Kolkata Durga Puja Pandal, SIT Formed, 12 Detained
A probe into the Chorbagan Durga Puja stampede in Kolkata has intensified after 19 people died and 24 sustained injuries. The Kolkata Police have detained 12 people, including puja organisers, and collected CCTV footage to scan for lapses and crowd mismanagement. A sitting Calcutta High Court judge will head a Special Investigation Team probe alongside the CID and other departments. The chief minister announced a safety audit across all Durga Puja pandals in West Bengal, warning of strict action against those responsible. Heavy rain and a sudden crowd surge preceded the fatal incident at the pandal, which eyewitness accounts described as enclosed with extremely narrow entry and exit points incapable of accommodating massive gatherings. With the tragedy striking during the festive period, organisers across the state have been directed to consult with police and local administration to reassess crowd control measures and emergency protocols.
Kolkata Stampede Kills 19 at Durga Puja Pandal, Police Probe Crowd Control Lapses, Detain 12
A stampede at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata has left 19 people dead and several others injured, who are undergoing treatment at Calcutta Medical College. Police have launched an investigation into crowd management failures, examining CCTV footage and probing lapses by organisers and deployed police personnel. Twelve people, including puja pandal organisers, have been detained for questioning. Forensic teams have gathered evidence from the sealed site. Eyewitnesses and locals alleged inadequate police deployment, stating personnel were focused on VIP movement rather than general crowd management, alongside confusion regarding narrow entry and exit points. Sudden rainfall worsened conditions as devotees inside refused to leave while crowds outside rushed to enter, resulting in massive overcrowding and the fatal crush. Authorities announced financial compensation of 25 lakh rupees and a government job for the families of the deceased, alongside 5 lakh rupees and medical coverage for the injured.
Durga Puja Stampede Kills 19 in Kolkata; Massive Crowd Surges After Rain, Probe Ordered
A stampede at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata claimed nineteen lives and left dozens injured after sudden heavy rain prompted an overcrowding surge. Part of the temporary structure collapsed, triggering panic and chaos among visitors. Emergency services, disaster management units, and police deployed to the site, rushing victims to Calcutta Medical College. Police registered a case to probe security lapses and detained twelve persons, including organisers, while forensic teams and task forces examine CCTV footage. The puja committee office bearers subsequently resigned. West Bengal authorities cancelled all official government celebrations and events. Eyewitnesses pointed to critical safety failures, including insufficient crowd control, poorly marked entry and exit routes, lack of evacuation plans, and inadequate police presence away from VIP gates.
Kolkata Durga Puja Stampede Kills 19; Police Probe Crowd Lapses, 12 Detained
A stampede at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata has claimed 19 lives and left several others injured, triggering an investigation by Kolkata Police into crowd management lapses. Eyewitnesses alleged poor arrangements, confusion over entry and exit routes, and that police personnel were heavily focused on VIP entries rather than general crowd control. Sudden torrential rain forced large numbers of revellers to rush towards the entry gate, escalating the situation. Forensic teams have collected evidence from the site, while CCTV footage is being examined by the police. Twelve people, including pandal organizers, have been detained for questioning. The West Bengal government announced a compensation of 25 lakh rupees and a government job for each deceased person's family, alongside 5 lakh rupees and full medical expenses for the injured. The state government assured stringent action against anyone found responsible for negligence.