Stampede at Kolkata’s Durga Puja: Officials promise compensation, reject political hype

Kolkata, October 18 – A chaotic scene unfolded at the widely‑attended Durga Puja pandal in Chora Bagan when a sudden surge caused a stampede. Minister Dilip Ghosh addressed the media, stating that the state is meeting its obligations and that the Chief Minister has already laid out relief measures.

Ghosh highlighted that police units were deployed, crowd control protocols were operational, and the religious ceremony must not be suspended. He warned that exploiting the incident for political gains would be unacceptable.

The Chief Minister announced a financial aid package of ₹25 lakh per affected family, assured a job placement, covered 100 % of hospital expenses for the injured, and added a special allowance of ₹5 lakh. He also disclosed that he had face‑to‑face discussions with thirteen of the nineteen families who suffered loss.

While discussing the broader political landscape, Ghosh criticised former Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her of past looting and corruption that hindered state development. He insinuated that those advocating a change in government maintain close ties with foreign forces that wish to create instability, often echoing the same tone as narratives from Bangladesh, Pakistan, and the United States.

Regarding controversial social media personalities, Ghosh singled out YouTuber Dhruv Rathi, calling him irrelevant to the nation’s problems and accusing him of using his platform solely for personal propaganda that harms the country’s image.

The administration assures that comprehensive support will be extended to victims while urging citizens to keep the Durga Puja festivities safe and uninterrupted.