Chorbagan Durga Puja Treasurer Arrested as Probe Focuses on Panic Announcement
What Happened
Kolkata Police have arrested Sanjib (Sanjeev) Raha, treasurer of the Chorbagan Durga Puja committee, over allegations that an announcement warning visitors that the pandal was collapsing triggered panic before the deadly stampede on 17 October. Police said CCTV footage identified Raha as one of the people making announcements. The stampede at the north Kolkata pandal killed 19 people and injured at least 25 others amid heavy rain and severe overcrowding. Investigators are also examining crowd-management measures and other possible lapses.
Key Takeaways
Authorities are treating the announcement as a possible factor in the tragedy, but the exact sequence of events remains under investigation. A Special Investigation Team is also examining crowd-control arrangements, safety protocols and administrative responsibilities.