17 Indians killed, 25 others injured in stampede during religious festival in West Bengal

New Delhi, Oct 17 (KUNA) -- At least 17 people were killed and 25 others injured on Saturday in a stampede that occurred during a religious festival north of Kolkata in the Indian state of West Bengal. The Press Trust of India, citing West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, reported that 17 people died and 25 were injured in the stampede inside a tent designated for Durga Puja celebrations north of Kolkata. Media reports indicated that inadequate security arrangements at the festival site contributed to the tragic incident, amid reports that the death toll could rise. Indian President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Home Minister Amit Shah expressed their deep sorrow over the incident. Modi also announced financial compensation for the families of the victims and wished the injured a speedy recovery. (End)