Kalimpong, 05th January: Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) Chairman Anit Thapa along with State Tourism Minister Goutam Deb paid a visit to the families of Kalimpong Mela ground stampede victims at Kalimpong, today.
While addressing the media, Thapa stated that he had a telephonic conversation with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on the incident, who asked him to convey her condolences to the bereaved families.
“She on behalf of the state sanctioned Rs 2 lakh each as compensation to the families. I know money cannot bring back life but as a gesture of compassion, we could do this much for the moment. Once the kriya and other rituals get over I will personally meet the families and find a way to support them,” The GTA Chairman stated.
It is to recall that Anita Chettri and Banita Gurung were trampled to death and five more severely injured when a stampede broke out during a musical show held at the Kalimpong Mela ground, on Sunday evening.
“Accidents are accidents. I don’t want to blame anyone for this. But in the future in such kinds of programmes, more security precautions should be taken. District administration will look into the accident in depth,” Thapa further added.