Kolkata, October 18, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced financial assistance for the families of those killed and people injured in the tragic stampede at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata.
Under the announced relief measures, the family of each deceased victim will receive ₹2 lakh from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). Those injured in the incident will be eligible for financial assistance of ₹50,000 each.
Expressing grief over the tragedy, the Prime Minister extended his condolences to the bereaved families and wished those injured a speedy recovery. He also stated that the local administration was providing all possible assistance to the affected people.
The incident took place on Saturday evening, October 17, amid a large gathering of visitors at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal. According to preliminary reports, a sudden surge in the crowd led to a stampede-like situation, leaving several people dead and many others injured.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari said that 17 people had died and 25 were injured, according to reports published on Saturday night. The injured were taken to Calcutta Medical College and Hospital for treatment.
Initial accounts suggested that crowd movement and an announcement at the venue may have contributed to the chaos. However, the precise circumstances surrounding the incident require confirmation through the official investigation.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari visited the hospital to review the situation and assess the treatment being provided to the injured. He assured that the incident would be investigated transparently.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed his condolences and postponed his scheduled programmes in West Bengal to visit the hospital and meet those affected.
The incident has raised serious concerns about crowd management and public safety at major religious gatherings, particularly during Durga Puja, when thousands of people visit popular pandals across Kolkata.
The Prime Minister’s compensation announcement is intended to provide financial support to families who have lost loved ones and those recovering from injuries. Further details regarding the investigation and the final casualty figures are awaited.
