Stampede at Kolkata’s Chorbagan Durga Puja Pandal: 19 Dead, 25 Injured, Sharp Political Dispute
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By • Published 18 Oct 2026• Updated 18 Oct 2026
A severe stampede at Kolkata’s Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal plunged the city into mourning. The incident resulted in 19 deaths and 25 injuries, sparking a sharp political controversy in West Bengal.
Details of the Incident
The stampede occurred suddenly due to overcrowding at the pandal, trapping many people. According to local reports, 19 people lost their lives and 25 others sustained serious injuries. The injured were immediately admitted to hospitals.
Political Reactions
Following the incident, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) accused BJP leaders of being part of the pandal committee. According to TMC, Devdeep Adhikari, nephew of West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, is the chief patron of the Chorbagan Puja committee. Additionally, BJP MLA Vijay Ojha is said to be the chairman, and Bengal BJP leader Tamogna Ghosh the chief advisor.
TMC’s Demand
TMC has demanded a thorough investigation into the incident and called for strict action regarding BJP representatives’ participation in the pandal committee. The party stated that negligence in security arrangements and political interference led to this tragedy.
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BJP’s Response
BJP rejected TMC’s allegations, stating there are no official documents confirming their representatives’ involvement in the pandal committee. The party also emphasized that all political parties should collaborate to strengthen security measures in such events.
Key Points
- Stampede at Kolkata’s Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal caused 19 deaths and 25 injuries.
- Trinamool Congress accused BJP leaders of being part of the pandal committee.
- Devdeep Adhikari, nephew of Suvendu Adhikari, named chief patron of the pandal.
- BJP MLA Vijay Ojha identified as chairman and Tamogna Ghosh as chief advisor.
- TMC demands full investigation and strict action; BJP denies allegations.
Future Prospects
Police have initiated an investigation into the case. The inquiry is focusing on the pandal’s security arrangements, crowd control measures, and the authenticity of committee memberships. Meanwhile, the political dispute continues, and public safety remains a major concern.
Until the truth of the incident is revealed, Kolkata’s residents and devotees remain in mourning over this tragic event, with hopes that the administration will take stringent steps to prevent such tragedies in the future.
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