Amit Shah to Visit Kolkata Stampede Victims in Hospital, Offer Prayers at Kalighat Temple

October 18, 2026

Kolkata: Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to visit the injured people undergoing treatment in a Kolkata hospital on Sunday following the deadly stampede at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata. He will also offer prayers at the Kalighat temple during his visit to the city.

The stampede claimed 19 lives and left several people injured, turning the festive season into a time of grief for the affected families.

Shah had earlier expressed condolences over the deaths and described the incident as “extremely distressing”. He also said he had spoken to West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari to discuss the situation following the tragedy.

In a message shared on X, the Home Minister said he was deeply saddened by the loss of lives and extended his condolences to the families of the deceased. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured.

Shah said the administration was making arrangements to ensure the best possible medical treatment for the injured. In view of the incident, he decided to postpone his scheduled programmes in West Bengal to visit the victims in hospital.

Kolkata Police Impose Restrictions After Stampede

Following the incident, Kolkata Police imposed prohibitory orders in parts of the city for three days, from October 18 to October 20, to maintain law and order and prevent any untoward incidents.

According to an order issued by Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Nand, the restrictions apply to areas under Bowbazar Police Station, bounded by College Street, Central Avenue (CR Avenue), Colootola Street and Eden Hospital Road.

The order prohibits unlawful gatherings of five or more people, carrying lathis or other dangerous weapons, and activities that could disturb public peace.

The restrictions were introduced amid concerns about possible demonstrations, rallies and meetings that could affect public order and safety. The order will remain in force for three days or until further directions are issued.

Investigation Underway Into Chorbagan Pandal Tragedy

The stampede took place at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in North Kolkata as a large number of devotees gathered at the venue. The sudden rush led to a deadly situation, leaving several people injured and prompting an emergency response.

The injured were shifted to hospitals for treatment, while authorities initiated steps to investigate the circumstances that led to the tragedy.

Shah’s planned hospital visit comes as the administration deals with the aftermath of the incident and works to ensure medical care for the injured. The tragedy has also raised concerns over crowd management at major public gatherings during the festive season.

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