Kolkata Stampede: Accused Changed SIM Cards to Evade Police, Investigators Find

Raha, treasurer of the puja organising committee, was detained by Kolkata Police in Nadia district and brought to the city for questioning. Following several hours of interrogation at the police headquarters in Lalbazar, he was arrested on Thursday night, an official said.

According to a police officer, Raha switched off his original SIM card and left Kolkata shortly after the incident. However, investigators found that he continued contacting family members and friends in the city using other numbers. Police reportedly traced eight suspicious mobile numbers linked to these communications, which helped them locate and detain him in Nadia.

Investigators also found that the announcement that allegedly triggered the panic was made from a separate room outside the pandal. The room was reportedly reserved exclusively for members of the organising committee and special guests.

During Raha's interrogation, police identified another person who was allegedly present with him when the announcement was made. The individual, described as Raha's neighbour in North Kolkata, has reportedly been missing since the incident. Police are attempting to trace him as part of the ongoing investigation.

The announcement was made as heavy rain contributed to confusion around the pandal. People outside were attempting to enter the premises for shelter, while some devotees inside were reluctant to leave for the same reason.

Amid the confusion, an announcement reportedly warned that the structure was at risk of collapsing and instructed people to evacuate immediately. The warning triggered panic, prompting devotees to rush towards the exits and entry gates, leading to a stampede.

Two separate investigations are currently underway. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Kolkata Police, led by an assistant commissioner-rank officer attached to the Detective Department, is conducting the criminal investigation.

A judicial inquiry panel constituted by the West Bengal government is carrying out a parallel probe under the leadership of retired Justice Anindita Roy Saraswati. The panel has been directed to complete its investigation and submit a report to the state government within three months.