India
Kolkata Stampede Claims 17 Lives, TMC Blames Police Absence
By HT News Desk
A stampede at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durgotsab Samity puja pandal in Kolkata on Saturday killed at least 17 people. The incident occurred around 7:40 pm at the exit gate of the Sarada Park (Chor Bagan) pandal, according to Kolkata Police, who said heavy crowds and rainfall contributed to the crush. The pandal has since been closed to visitors and injured victims were taken to MCH for treatment.
The Trinamool Congress (TMC) posted on X that eyewitnesses and local residents reported little to no police presence for crowd control at the pandal. The party accused the police, the BJP‑led state administration and the BJP for the lack of security and emergency response, and called for accountability from senior officials.
Former West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee expressed shock and grief over the tragedy. She posted on X wishing a speedy recovery for the injured and prayed for strength for their families.
The TMC’s posts also highlighted that ordinary citizens had to step in to rescue the injured after the stampede.
The police statement noted that the stampede happened at the exit gate of the pandal under Girish Park Police Station, and that all injured persons were rescued and shifted to MCH for treatment.
Frequently asked questions
How many people died in the Kolkata stampede?
17 people were killed.
Where did the stampede occur?
At the exit gate of the Sarada Park (Chor Bagan) pandal in Kolkata.
What did the police say caused the stampede?
Heavy crowds and rainfall contributed to the crush.