On Sunday, Kolkata Police have imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, in parts of north Kolkata from October 18 to October 20 following a deadly stampede at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal that claimed atleast 19 lives.
The order, issued by Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Nand, prohibits unlawful gatherings of five or more people, the carrying of dangerous weapons and activities that could disturb public peace in the designated area. The restrictions will remain in force for three days or until further orders.
The move comes amid concerns about possible demonstrations, rallies and public meetings that could pose a threat to law and order following the tragedy.
West Bengal | Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Nand has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS in parts of the Bowbazar area for 3 days, from Oct 18 to Oct 20, to prevent breach of peace. It bans the assembly of five or more individuals, the possession of lathis or dangerous weapons, and any actions that disrupt public harmony.
— ANI (@ANI) October 18, 2026
Section 163 BNSS restrictions in north Kolkata
According to the police order, the restrictions cover the area under Bowbazar Police Station, bounded by College Street, CR Avenue, Collotola Street and Eden Hospital Road.
The prohibitory measures ban unlawful assemblies involving five or more people. Carrying lathis, lethal weapons or other dangerous items is also prohibited. In addition, any act considered likely to cause a breach of peace or disrupt public tranquillity within the specified area is covered by the order.
Explaining the legal basis for the restrictions, Commissioner Ajay Nand stated in the order:
“Now, therefore, in exercise of the power conferred by Sub-Section(1) of Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita(BNSS), 2023 read with the Sub-Section(3) of the said Section, I, Ajay Nand, Commissioner of Police, Kolkata being an Executive Magistrate for the Metropolitan area of Kolkata as well as in the district of South 24 Parganas (within the limits of the suburbs of Kolkata falling under Kolkata police jurisdiction) do hereby prohibit for a period of 03(three) days from 18.10.2026 to 20.10.2026 or until further order, any unlawful assembly of 05(five) or more persons, carrying of lathi, any lethal or other dangerous weapons or doing of any act which is likely to cause breach of the peace and disturbances of the public tranquility within the said Area in the town of Kolkata.”
Where exactly has Section 163 been applied?
Section 163 will be in effect from today, Sunday, October 18, through Tuesday, October 20.
From College Street, via Kolutola Street, to Eden Hospital Road
From Kolutola Street to Eden Hospital Road, via CR Avenue
From College Street to CR Avenue via Kolutola Street
From College Street, via Eden Hospital Road, to CR Avenue
Chorbagan Durga Puja stampede claims atleast 19 lives
The restrictions follow a stampede at the Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in north Kolkata, where heavy crowds gathered during the festive celebrations. The incident resulted in atleast 19 deaths, while injured people were taken to hospitals for treatment.
Authorities have launched an investigation to establish the circumstances that led to the tragedy and determine accountability.
The incident has also prompted steps by the state government to support the affected families and investigate the arrangements surrounding the event.
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West Bengal Government announces Rs 25 lakh compensation
The West Bengal government has announced compensation of Rs 25 lakh for the family of each victim. A job has also been promised to a member of each affected family. A Special Task Force (STF) inquiry has been initiated to examine the incident and establish responsibility.
#WATCH | Kolkata’s Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja stampede incident | West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari says, "Everyone is well aware of the role of the previous government in similar incidents that occurred in the past. Some are attempting to politicize this, but it will be to no avail. I have met with the families of the deceased, and they have explicitly stated that they have full faith in the Chief Minister and the government… The PMO also requested a report from the Chief Secretary, which we have submitted. The Prime Minister has announced relief and compensation. The central and state governments are working together on this…" He also says, "In 2025, two more incidents occurred—during the Puja season, 13 people lost their lives due to electrocution amidst the rains. What was the Chief Minister’s role? Did she visit any of the affected families? A sudden, devastating flood struck North Bengal; 100 people perished, from the hills of Darjeeling to Nagrakata…"
— ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2026
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari is monitoring the situation alongside the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, Director General of Police and Kolkata Police Commissioner.
Helpline number issued for assistance
Authorities have established a helpline for people seeking assistance following the Chorbagan stampede. The helpline number is 1800 345 5678.
Also Read | Durga Puja in Kolkata: 5 things to do beyond pandal-hopping
With the Section 163 restrictions in effect from October 18 to 20, police have moved to prevent further disturbances in the affected area while investigations into the deadly Durga Puja pandal stampede continue.