Did BJP Hold Karnataka Government Accountable for Bengaluru Stampede?

New Delhi, June 5 (AINS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) fiercely criticized the Karnataka government following the unfortunate stampede that took place near Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium during the Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) victory celebration, which led to the loss of 11 lives and injuries to over 50 individuals.

The party squarely blamed Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, demanding their immediate resignations.

During a press briefing, BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra described the occurrence as "serious and tragic."

"On the prior day in Bengaluru, Karnataka, 11 individuals lost their lives in a stampede. This incident is not just a tragedy for Karnataka, but for the entire nation. The Prime Minister and numerous others have extended their condolences. The BJP also mourns the loss of these innocent lives in the Karnataka stampede and prays for strength and patience for the families affected, as well as peace for the departed souls," he stated.

Patra raised critical concerns regarding the events leading to the calamity, questioning, "Was this merely an accident or a deliberately orchestrated stampede? I believe this was a government-manufactured disaster. It's shocking that Siddaramaiah stated that such stampedes happen everywhere, even after 11 innocent lives were lost. The people of Karnataka will not forgive him or the Deputy CM; their internal power struggles have cost lives."

Patra also took to X, asking, "Just as Allu Arjun faced arrest for his role in a previous stampede, will Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar face similar consequences today?"

He attributed the chaotic organization of the victory march to the tragedy, stating, "Due to the desire of D.K. Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah for a photo opportunity, they hastily organized a grand event within just 12 hours, resulting in 11 deaths and over 50 severe injuries."

Questioning the legality of the occasion, the BJP representative demanded, "Who authorized this event? Who provided documented permission? We need to see the risk assessment and crowd management plan. If the stadium's capacity is 35,000, how did 300,000 people congregate? Why were they allowed entry?"

"If police clearance was not obtained, how was the event allowed to proceed?" he further queried.

Patra also condemned the continuation of festivities amidst the tragedy, stating, "The most disgraceful part was that celebrations persisted even while people were dying. Celebrating during such a tragedy is something India has never witnessed before. Shame on Siddaramaiah and D.K. Shivakumar; they were smiling on stage while lives were lost," he remarked.

Drawing a comparison, Patra recalled the arrest of actor Allu Arjun in a prior stampede incident and questioned why similar actions should not be taken against Karnataka's leadership.

"If Allu Arjun was apprehended for such an incident, will D.K. Shivakumar and Siddaramaiah be arrested now?" he inquired.

Patra also referenced a viral clip showing Deputy CM Shivakumar allegedly pushing someone away to avoid being obstructed in view.

"The Deputy CM was more concerned about his public image than about managing the crowd," Patra accused.

Regarding accountability, Patra affirmed, "Reports indicate that an additional 25,000 tickets were sold beyond the capacity limit. This signifies a clear failure of the state government. The CM and Deputy CM must resign for the deaths of 11 innocent individuals."

Targeting Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Patra concluded, "Where is Rahul Gandhi in this situation? The individual who routinely mocks the Indian government, Narendra Modi, and the armed forces in the name of democratic rights—why is he silent regarding this tragedy?"