19 killed in Kolkata stampede; CM Suvendu announces jobs, Rs 25 lakh for kin

In a tragic stampede at a Durga Puja pandal in north Kolkata, 19 people lost their lives while 25 others were injured, according to West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The state government announced compensation of Rs 25 lakh along with a government job for each deceased family, and medical expenses for the injured would be covered by the state, providing Rs 5 lakh per victim.

A fact-finding committee, including special task force and forensic teams, would investigate the incident. Adhikari emphasized that those responsible for crowd management would face consequences. The incident occurred during heavy rain at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal, with some people rushing forward due to a rush ordered by the organizers.

Police detained officials from the organizing club, private security guards, and duty personnel for questioning. The state government will coordinate with families and the Prime Minister's Office on assistance.