In brief
During a surprising rain shower at a Durga Puja celebration in Kolkata, a stampede claimed at least 17 lives, including a 7‑year‑old girl, and left 25 injured. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendhu Adhikari confirmed the deaths and the chaotic crowd dynamics. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the incident "tragic" and assured aid for affected families. The crash followed a public announcement and the surge of people seeking protection, a pattern that echoes past religious‑festival incidents across India.
At least 17 people died and many were hurt when a crowd compression occurred at a Durga Puja event in Kolkata.
The crush happened after an abrupt rainfall that prompted thousands to flee the open spaces in search of cover.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendhu Adhikari identified a seven‑year‑old girl among those who lost their lives and announced that 25 people were receiving medical treatment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the tragedy as heartbreaking, noting that the state government was extending assistance to families that suffered.
Six of the victims have been named, according to local officials.
Police officials reported that an announcement incited commotion as rain began, with the crowd pushing, pulling, and rushing forward, which resulted in the stampede.
Crowd incidents during religious gatherings are frequent in India, often due to poor management and inadequate safety measures.
A similar disaster in 2024 saw 121 fatalities during a Hindu festival gathering in Uttar Pradesh. Read more about the 2024 incident.
