What Actions is the Karnataka Government Taking After the Bengaluru Stampede?

Synopsis
The Karnataka government has appointed IAS officer G. Jagadeesha to investigate the tragic stampede near Chinnaswamy Stadium that led to multiple fatalities. This decision emphasizes accountability and the need for public safety measures. Learn about the government's response and the planned magisterial inquiry into this devastating incident.
Key Takeaways
- Government Response: Appointment of G. Jagadeesha for inquiry.
- Casualties: 11 dead, over 40 injured in stampede.
- Compensation: Rs 10 lakh for victims' families.
- Investigation Goals: Identify causes and accountability.
- Public Safety: Review of event protocols is essential.
Bengaluru, June 5 (NationPress) The Karnataka government, under Congress leadership, has appointed senior IAS official G. Jagadeesha, the Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate of Bengaluru Urban, to lead the investigation into the tragic stampede incident that occurred near the Chinnaswamy Stadium, according to officials.
The unfortunate event, which transpired on Wednesday, claimed the lives of at least 11 individuals and left over 40 others injured.
The directive was issued by the Deputy Secretary of the Internal Department (Law and Order) on Wednesday evening.
The order mandates that the investigator conduct a thorough magisterial inquiry within 15 days and present a report to the state government.
This inquiry will specifically look into the circumstances surrounding the stampede at the entrance gates of the Chinnaswamy Stadium and the ensuing casualties.
Moreover, the order emphasizes the need to examine the sequence of events, identify any failures, and hold accountable those responsible for these failures.
This decision follows a report from the Director General and Inspector General of Police, detailing that on June 4, during celebrations near Vidhana Soudha and the Chinnaswamy Stadium, a large number of cricket fans gathered unexpectedly. Despite implementing all possible security measures due to the short notice for the program, a barricade collapsed between 3:30 PM and 4:30 PM as attendees rushed to enter the stadium, leading to a stampede that resulted in 11 fatalities and injuries to 47, as reported by the State Police Chief.
The state government has reviewed the report by Karnataka DGP and IGP, M.A. Saleem, and decided to pursue a magisterial inquiry into this incident.
Additionally, the Karnataka government has declared a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had previously announced the initiation of a magisterial probe during a press conference on Wednesday.
Prior to this, the Karnataka government had canceled the victory parade from Vidhana Soudha to Chinnaswamy Cricket Stadium for security reasons.
According to police reports, officers had been managing the celebrating crowds since Tuesday night, ensuring that no disturbances occurred.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his condolences regarding the stampede incident near the Chinnaswamy Stadium.
In a statement on social media platform X, the Prime Minister's Office quoted him saying, "The incident in Bengaluru is truly heart-wrenching. In this tragic moment, my thoughts are with those who have lost loved ones. I wish a swift recovery to the injured."
Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress MP, described the tragic stampede as 'heartbreaking' on Wednesday.
"I extend my condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. I hope for a quick and complete recovery for all those injured. During this time of sorrow, I stand with the people of Bengaluru," he expressed on X.
"The Karnataka government must offer all possible assistance and relief to the affected families. This tragedy serves as a painful reminder: no celebration is worth a human life. All safety protocols for public events must be reassessed and rigorously enforced — prioritizing lives above all," he stated.