States » EastPosted at: Oct 24 2026 9:32PM


Chorbagan Durga idol immersed without festivities days after stampede

Kolkata, Oct 24 (UNI) A couple of days after SIT chief and retired Calcutta High Court judge Anindita Roy Saraswati allowed the immersion of the Durga idol at Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durgotsav, the puja committee on Saturday proceeded with the ritual in a sombre atmosphere, without the customary festivities, sindoor khela or ceremonial farewell.
The immersion came nearly a week after the stampede during Maha Saptami celebrations claimed 19 lives.
Local residents bid farewell to the goddess in a subdued atmosphere, with many seen seeking forgiveness at her feet over the possibility of shortcomings in the puja arrangements.
The chants of “Abar esho Ma” (Come again, Mother) could be heard as the idol was taken away.
The idol was brought out of the ill-fated pandal on Saturday afternoon.
Around 40 specially engaged workers were brought in to carry out the sensitive operation.
In accordance with the SIT's instructions, the main structure of the pandal was kept completely intact to ensure that evidence relevant to the investigation was not disturbed.
The idol was subsequently placed on Central Avenue for some time, drawing a gathering of local residents before it was taken for immersion under tight security.
The immersion had remained uncertain even after the conclusion of the Durga Puja festivities.
On Thursday, Saraswati inspected the site and clarified that there was no objection to the immersion of the idol, provided the pandal remained exactly as it was for the purpose of the investigation.
The committee took the final decision to proceed with the immersion in accordance with her directions.
The stampede occurred amid a rush of people at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin puja pandal during heavy rain on the evening of Maha Saptami.

Nineteen people died and several others were injured in the incident.
A special investigation team headed by retired judge Saraswati has been constituted to conduct a comprehensive and impartial probe into the tragedy.
Police have so far arrested nine people, including two announcers, in connection with the incident.
With the SIT's permission secured, the idol was immersed on Saturday without the usual celebrations. There were no drums or scenes of festivity as the goddess was bid farewell in an atmosphere of grief.
UNI SAG BM
Tags: #Chorbagan Durga idol immersed without festivities days after stampede
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