19 dead in Kolkata Durga Puja stampede, several injured: Rain, mismanagement, ‘Bhaipo’ and more; what we know so far

At least 19 people died and several were injured in a stampede at a Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata on Saptami evening. Heavy rain and a large crowd were reported before the tragedy. The incident occurred near the exit gate of the pandal in Girish Park police station area. The exact cause of the stampede remains unclear and authorities have promised an inquiry.

Eyewitnesses reported that the pandal had an elevated circular corridor for visitors to exit, but the crowd grew larger than expected, leading to pushing and injuries. Rescue teams took injured people to Calcutta Medical College and Hospital, with some transferred to SSKM Hospital. The state government announced compensation for the families of deceased and injured persons, as well as medical expenses coverage.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced additional compensation for the next of kin of the deceased and injured. The BJP government in West Bengal has declared ₹25 lakh compensation for each deceased person's family and one Group D job for one family member. A Special Investigation Team has been ordered to investigate the incident.