Kolkata Durga Puja stampede probe to be led by SIT under sitting judge, says CM

Kolkata's Durga Puja celebrations turned tragic when a crowd crush resulted in multiple fatalities. The state government has ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the incident. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee confirmed that the SIT will operate under the supervision of a sitting judge, ensuring judicial oversight throughout the inquiry.
The decision follows public outcry and demands for a transparent, impartial investigation. Authorities aim to determine the exact causes, assess crowd‑control measures, and identify any lapses by event organizers or law‑enforcement agencies.
The appointed judge will regularly report progress to the government, and the SIT is expected to submit a detailed report within a stipulated timeframe. The probe seeks to provide closure to victims' families and prevent similar tragedies in future religious gatherings.
No new figures on casualties or injuries have been released beyond the initial reports, and officials have urged calm while the investigation proceeds.