17 killed in stampede during religious festival celebrations in India

At least 17 people were killed and many others injured on Saturday evening in a stampede that broke out during the Durga Puja celebrations in the eastern Indian city of Kolkata, reported Xinhua, quoting local media.

The incident took place at the crowded pandal, reported ANI.

Kolkata Police, in a statement, said that the stampede occurred at the exit gate of Sarada Park (Chor Bagan) Puja Pandal (Girish Park PS area) due to "heavy rush" of pandal hoppers during rain on Saturday at around 19.40.

Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF) to be given to the next of kin of each of those who lost their lives in the stampede. The injured individuals will also be given Rs 50,000.

The Prime Minister also expressed deep grief over the tragic incident, describing it as "extremely distressing". In another post on X, he assured that the local administration is providing all the necessary measures to the affected individuals.

"The stampede in Kolkata is extremely distressing. My thoughts are with those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest. The local administration is providing all possible assistance to those affected: PM," the Prime Minister's office stated.

West Bengal Governor RN Ravi also extended condolences to the bereaved families.

"I am deeply heartbroken by the tragic stampede incident at a Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata, resulting in the loss of many precious lives. In this hour of grief, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. I pray for the swift recovery of the injured," Lok Bhavan wrote on X.