Guwahati, 18 October (HS): Assam Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed deep grief over the tragic stampede at the Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata, which claimed several lives and left many others injured.

In a social media post on Sunday, Sarma said he was deeply pained to learn about the tragic incident at the Chorbagan Puja pandal. On behalf of the people of Assam, he extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families who lost their loved ones in the tragedy.

Describing the incident as a moment of profound sorrow, the Chief Minister said that, as a neighbouring state, Assam stood with everyone affected by the tragedy. He also expressed solidarity with the grieving families and wished a speedy recovery for those injured in the incident.

Sarma prayed to Goddess Durga to grant strength and courage to the bereaved families to endure the irreparable loss and to help the injured recover at the earliest.

The tragic incident during the Durga Puja celebrations has cast a pall of gloom over the festive atmosphere in Kolkata, with rescue efforts and medical treatment for the injured continuing.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash