Politics · India Bureau
Police seek voice samples from accused in Kolkata puja stampede case
Investigators in Kolkata are attempting to link two suspects to a loudspeaker announcement that allegedly triggered a dangerous crush at a pandal during Durga Puja festivities. The announcement about a structural collapse sparked widespread panic among crowds gathered for the celebrations.
LSN India ·
Police have approached a court seeking permission to collect voice samples from two individuals accused of making a loudspeaker announcement at the Chorbagan puja pandal that allegedly precipitated a stampede-like incident. Authorities believe the announcement about a portion of the pandal collapsing caused immediate panic among revellers, leading to a dangerous surge in the crowd.
The investigation centres on determining whether the two suspects deliberately spread false information or made the announcement recklessly, thereby endangering public safety. Forensic voice analysis is expected to help establish whether the audio recovered from the scene matches the voice samples provided by the accused.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about safety protocols at major public gatherings during the festive season. Authorities are reviewing crowd management procedures at puja pandals across the city as the festival celebrations continue. The case underscores the critical importance of verified communication during large-scale public events where misinformation can have severe consequences.