Why Was Karnataka CM’s Political Secretary Sacked Amid Stampede Outrage?
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Synopsis
In a significant political fallout following the tragic stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium, Karnataka's CM Siddaramaiah has dismissed his Political Secretary. This decision comes amid rising criticism over the handling of celebratory events. Explore the unfolding political drama and its implications.
Key Takeaways
- K. Govindaraju has been dismissed from his role following a deadly stampede.
- The Karnataka government is facing scrutiny over event management and public safety.
- Key officials have been suspended amid the outrage, raising questions about accountability.
- Political pressure and connections are influencing decision-making within the government.
- The incident underscores the importance of safety in public gatherings.
Bengaluru, June 6 (NationPress) Following public outrage regarding the tragic stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium during the RCB celebrations that resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals, the Karnataka government has dismissed K. Govindaraju from his role as the Political Secretary to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
The government has not disclosed any specific reasons for Govindaraju's termination, who is known to be a close associate of Siddaramaiah and a Congress MLC. However, insiders suggest that this decision was influenced by significant criticism from various cabinet ministers regarding the organization of the felicitation event for RCB players at Vidhana Soudha.
Reports indicate that during a cabinet meeting on Thursday evening, ministers expressed their dissatisfaction. CM Siddaramaiah allegedly approved the felicitation event under pressure from Govindaraju, who also serves as President of the Karnataka Olympic Association.
At a press conference alongside BJP leaders, Union Minister for Large and Heavy Industries and JD-S leader H.D. Kumaraswamy asserted that the calamity occurred due to Govindaraju's actions.
Kumaraswamy detailed that on the fateful day, a close aide of the CM pressured then Bengaluru Police Commissioner Dayananda into allowing the victory celebrations. The officer had warned that hosting two events would pose a security risk, as police were already stretched thin managing crowds throughout the night. Following this, Dayananda communicated with the CM, who allegedly instructed him to proceed with the events.
Kumaraswamy further claimed, "This individual is always seen accompanying CM Siddaramaiah, recognized by the media as ‘Govinda.’"
He added, "The police had assigned officers and the majority of the police force to Vidhana Soudha, while three platoons, each consisting of 25 personnel from the Karnataka State Reserve Police (KSRP), were stationed at the Stadium. CM Siddaramaiah had firmly opposed the decision to honor the RCB players at the Stadium."
In a related development, the Congress government has transferred ADGP, Intelligence, Hemant Nimbalkar, amid concerns that the government was reluctant to act against him due to his wife's affiliation with Congress as a former MLA. Nimbalkar was appointed as the state intelligence chief last year.
While the state government has suspended the Bengaluru Police Commissioner, the DCP of the Central Division, the Additional Commissioner of Police for the West, and the local Inspector in connection with the stampede, no actions against the intelligence chief have raised eyebrows.
Point of View
It's crucial to approach this incident with impartiality. The dismissal of K. Govindaraju, alongside the transfer of the intelligence chief, signals a government under pressure. While accountability is necessary, the focus should remain on ensuring public safety and preventing future tragedies, rather than solely on political maneuvering.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the sacking of K. Govindaraju?
K. Govindaraju was sacked following public outrage over a stampede during RCB celebrations that resulted in 11 deaths. His close ties to CM Siddaramaiah and criticism from cabinet ministers regarding organizing the event contributed to this decision.
What actions have been taken against other officials?
In addition to Govindaraju's dismissal, the Bengaluru Police Commissioner and other police officials involved in the management of the event were suspended, while the intelligence chief was transferred amid concerns about his connections.
How did the cabinet respond to the incident?
Cabinet ministers expressed significant dissatisfaction during a meeting, leading to the decision to dismiss Govindaraju, who is believed to have pressured for the event to take place despite safety concerns.
