Kolkata: A festive evening turned tragic at the Chorebagan Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata after a stampede reportedly claimed 19 lives during the Durga Puja celebrations. The incident has triggered a major investigation, with 18 people, including puja organisers and volunteers, reportedly arrested. Meanwhile, all office-bearers of the Chorebagan Sarbojanin Durgotsav Committee have reportedly resigned following the tragedy.

According to preliminary information, the stampede occurred on Saptami evening when a massive crowd of devotees gathered at the puja pandal. Amid the heavy rush, several people reportedly fell to the ground, while others became trapped in the crowd, resulting in multiple casualties and injuries.

The reported death toll has reached 19, including 13 women and one child. More than 40 people have reportedly sustained injuries and were admitted to various hospitals across Kolkata for treatment.

Following the incident, police intensified their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the stampede. Authorities are examining whether lapses in crowd management, security arrangements or event organisation contributed to the tragedy. The arrests of organisers and volunteers form part of the ongoing probe, while the question of accountability remains under scrutiny.

Public entry to the Chorebagan puja pandal has reportedly been suspended following the incident. The restrictions have brought regular visitor movement to a halt as authorities assess the situation. Fire services personnel and the minister responsible for emergency services also visited the site to review the circumstances.

The incident has raised serious questions about crowd-control measures and safety arrangements at large religious gatherings. Investigators are expected to examine whether adequate precautions were taken to prevent overcrowding and ensure the safety of devotees.

West Bengal Chief Minister Shuvendu Adhikari reportedly visited the site and directed an investigation into the incident.

The exact circumstances leading to the stampede and the responsibility of those involved will become clearer as the investigation progresses. The tragedy has cast a shadow over the Durga Puja celebrations in Kolkata, leaving families grieving and raising urgent concerns over public safety at major festivals.