SIT Chief Says Three-Month Deadline Tight for Kolkata Stampede Probe

The head of the special investigation team (SIT) examining the circumstances of the stampede at a Kolkata Durga Puja pandal has expressed concerns about the adequacy of the three-month deadline assigned for submitting findings. The retired judge, who is overseeing the probe into the incident that claimed multiple lives, indicated that the prescribed timeframe presents considerable constraints for a thorough investigation of the magnitude required.

Despite the challenges posed by the tight schedule, the SIT chief assured stakeholders that the investigating team would make concerted efforts to complete its work and file the report within the stipulated period. The commitment reflects the urgency with which authorities are pursuing answers regarding the stampede, one of the more significant incidents to strike the state in recent times.

The investigation is expected to examine the safety protocols, crowd management measures, and administrative decisions leading up to the tragic incident. As the probe progresses, the SIT has been tasked with identifying accountability and recommending preventive measures to avert similar occurrences at public gatherings in future.