7 people die in Kolkata storm, CM Suvendu announces ₹4 Lakh ex-gratia

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has announced immediate financial relief for the families of seven individuals who lost their lives during a severe storm that struck South Bengal on Friday afternoon. Speaking from the state secretariat, Nabanna, the Chief Minister expressed deep condolences for the victims, noting that a mix of electrocution and lightning strikes caused the fatalities. Each bereaved family will receive ₹4 lakh as ex-gratia assistance to help navigate this sudden tragedy.

Beyond the immediate financial aid for the deceased, the Chief Minister emphasized that the state government has taken full responsibility for those injured in the disaster. Adhikari clarified that providing high-quality medical care is the administration's top priority at this moment, with the government bearing the entire financial burden of their treatment. This proactive stance aims to ensure that no survivor faces a financial hurdle while recovering from storm-related trauma.

The state administration is also pivoting toward rapid restoration and rehabilitation in the districts most affected by the squall. In addition to individual medical aid, the Chief Minister pledged government support for repair work and general assistance in devastated zones. Teams are currently working to assess property damage and restore essential services to normalcy as quickly as possible.