'How can we accept the loss of our children?': Shivakumar weeps recalling stadium stampede
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Synopsis
In a heart-wrenching moment, Karnataka's Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar broke down while addressing the tragic stadium stampede that left 11 young lives lost. He called for a thorough investigation and emphasized the need to learn from this devastating incident.
Key Takeaways
- Eleven lives were tragically lost during a stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium.
- D.K. Shivakumar expressed deep emotional pain over the tragedy.
- A thorough investigation is promised to address the causes of the stampede.
- Public safety measures need to be reevaluated in light of this incident.
- Political reactions have been mixed, with some exploiting the tragedy.
Bengaluru, June 5 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar was visibly shaken and broke down in front of reporters while discussing the tragic stampede that claimed the lives of 11 individuals at Chinnaswamy Stadium during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) IPL 2025 victory celebration.
With a heavy heart, Shivakumar recounted the harrowing scene of young victims, aged between 10 and 15, lying lifeless after the incident on Wednesday, and how their bodies were handled.
"I cannot comprehend how our children, who had their whole lives ahead of them, became victims of this tragic stampede. This incident has led to a profound loss of life and has stained the reputation of both Bengaluru and Karnataka. We are taking this matter with utmost seriousness and will thoroughly investigate and address the failures that led to this disaster. We must extract lessons from this experience," he stated, responding to media inquiries at his residence in Sadashivanagar.
"None of us anticipated such a catastrophe in our state. The RCB team had notified the media of their arrival in Bengaluru, leaving our government with no choice. We regard this tragedy as an event that has impacted our own family deeply," he expressed.
"The grief we are experiencing is akin to losing our own family members. This pain is intolerable. The deceased are part of our extended family. At this moment, we must focus on mourning rather than politicizing the matter. The blame for this tragedy cannot be laid solely on a few individuals," he added.
"The excitement among fans, who had waited 18 years for this moment, resulted in an overwhelming crowd, which led to the tragic events. Yesterday, at the hospital, grieving parents implored, 'Please do not conduct a post-mortem. Just return our child's body.' However, we cannot release the bodies without proper examination, as this could lead to legal complications in the future. We require a scientific report to ascertain the reasons behind these tragic deaths," Shivakumar reflected.
In response to the BJP's allegations, he remarked: "Regarding this issue, I owe my response to the citizens of the state, not the BJP. Their comments are ridiculous; they excel in political maneuvering."
"Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy (of the JD-S) and the BJP are exploiting this tragedy for political gain. This is their modus operandi. I could provide a detailed account of everything that transpired during their governance, but I refuse to stoop to their level. I have personally witnessed the deaths of children who deserved to live. No family can endure this. The Police Commissioner had requested the event to conclude within 10 minutes. I also spoke with the RCB team, and the program was indeed cut short," the Deputy CM remarked.
"When the President and Secretary of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) were unable to reach the KSCA, I had to drive them myself. Media colleagues informed me of the tragedy while I was en route to the stadium. Subsequently, the Commissioner briefed me about the situation," he added.
"I am indifferent to any political criticism surrounding this incident. Their tactics are well-known. BJP MLC C.T. Ravi, Union Minister Kumaraswamy, and Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka are engaging in political theatrics. I will address all of this at a later time. When this issue arises in the Assembly, I will highlight what transpired during their tenure. I will not engage in political games at this time. Media personnel should also refrain from politicizing this tragedy right now. I do not wish to revisit the events surrounding actor Dr. Rajkumar's passing. I refuse to participate in such low-level politics. The BJP and JD-S continuously capitalize on tragedies for political purposes; this is their strategy," he reiterated.
When asked about Kumaraswamy's claim that Shivakumar is accountable for these deaths, the Deputy Chief Minister responded: "I will address Kumaraswamy later. I was attending a court hearing in Kanakapura when police officials informed me they could not permit the procession. I hurried back to Bengaluru. Even metro services were halted to prevent an influx of people."
Point of View
It is essential to approach this tragedy with sensitivity and recognition of the profound impact it has on the victims' families and the community. It is critical to ensure that investigations are conducted transparently and thoroughly, emphasizing the need for accountability while avoiding political exploitation of the situation.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium?
The stampede was triggered by an overwhelming crowd during the IPL victory celebration for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, leading to tragic consequences.
How did D.K. Shivakumar respond to the tragedy?
D.K. Shivakumar expressed deep sorrow, calling for a thorough investigation and emphasizing the importance of learning from such incidents.
What actions are being taken following the stampede?
The Karnataka government has pledged to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy and address any shortcomings identified.
What was the public's reaction to the incident?
The public has shown immense grief and concern, especially among the families of the victims, with calls for accountability and memorials honoring those lost.
How are political leaders reacting to the incident?
Political leaders have varied responses, with some using the tragedy for political gain, while others, like Shivakumar, focus on mourning and accountability.
