Several people were injured in a stampede-like situation at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata on Saturday evening, October 17, amid heavy crowds and rain during Saptami celebrations. The injured were taken to Kolkata Medical College and Hospital for treatment.
While initial reports put the number of injured at around 15, other reports cited higher figures. The exact casualty count and cause of the incident remained unclear as rescue efforts continued.
As per NDTV, 17 deaths have been reported while multiple channels have now reported over 35 people injured.
Heavy Crowds Trigger Panic
The incident occurred as large numbers of devotees gathered at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin pandal to offer prayers and view the Durga idol. Heavy rain and overcrowding reportedly contributed to the chaos, while some reports suggested that part of the pandal structure or its entrance may have collapsed.
These accounts have not yet established the precise sequence of events. The sudden rush left several visitors injured, with some reportedly suffering serious injuries. The injured were taken to Kolkata Medical College and Hospital for medical attention.
Organisers Await Clarity
Following the incident, the pandal was temporarily closed to visitors, and its lights were switched off as efforts were made to manage the situation. Police and emergency personnel reached the spot to assist with the response. Puja organiser Bikash Das said the cause of the incident was not yet clear and that the immediate priority was rescue work.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari also reached the hospital to enquire about the situation, according to reports. Authorities were yet to establish the exact cause and confirm a definitive figure for the injured.
Mamata Banerjee Expresses Shock
Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed grief over the stampede at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal. In a post on X, she said she was “deeply shocked and saddened” by the incident and prayed to Maa Durga for the speedy recovery of those injured, while wishing their families strength and courage during the difficult time.
Meanwhile, police said at least 25 people had been taken to Kolkata Medical College and Hospital, while other reports put the number at around 35. Authorities closed the pandal to visitors and deployed emergency response teams. The West Bengal government also issued a helpline number, 18003455678, for people seeking information about the incident.
Deeply shocked and saddened to learn about the stampede at the Chore Bagan Puja Pandal. I pray to Maa Durga for the speedy recovery of all those injured and for strength and courage for their families during this difficult time.
— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) October 17, 2026
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Durga Puja is a celebration of faith, community and togetherness, and public festivities must ensure that everyone can participate safely. Incidents involving large crowds underline the need for clear entry and exit routes, effective crowd management, accessible emergency services and prompt communication between organisers and authorities.
It is equally important to establish the facts before drawing conclusions about the cause of such incidents. How can communities and authorities work together to ensure that public celebrations remain safe and inclusive for everyone?
Also Read: 5 Family Members Found Dead In Greater Noida; Food Safety Officer Suspects Poisoning
VIDEO | West Bengal: Injured rushed to Kolkata Medical College after stampede-like situation at North Kolkata Durga Puja Pandal. (Source: Third Party) (Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/d8jp61yd2p) https://t.co/dlPL3TgzyS
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 17, 2026
