Kolkata, October 17, 2026: Durga Puja celebrations in North Kolkata were disrupted on Saturday evening after a stampede-like situation developed at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal, leaving several people injured and triggering an emergency response.
The injured were taken to Calcutta Medical College and Hospital for treatment. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari and Chief Secretary Manoj Agarwal reached the hospital to review the situation and assess the arrangements for medical assistance.
According to initial media reports, the incident occurred amid heavy crowds at the North Kolkata pandal on Maha Saptami evening. Subsequent reports indicated that a section of the pandal structure collapsed under crowd pressure, triggering panic among visitors. The precise sequence of events remains subject to confirmation.
Emergency assistance was arranged for those affected, while authorities responded to the developing situation. The number and condition of the injured require confirmation from official sources.
Former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed deep sorrow over the incident and prayed for the recovery of those injured.
In a message posted on X, she wrote: “Deeply shocked and saddened to learn about the stampede at the Chore Bagan Puja Pandal.”
She also wished the injured a speedy recovery and extended her thoughts and prayers to their families, hoping they would find strength during the difficult period.
The incident has cast a shadow over the Durga Puja festivities in North Kolkata. The immediate priority remains medical treatment for the injured and the management of public safety around the affected venue.
Further verified information regarding the casualties, the circumstances leading to the incident and any subsequent administrative action is awaited.
