Was the Government Responsible for the Bengaluru Stampede?

Bengaluru, June 5 (NationPress) - In light of the tragic stampede that resulted in the loss of 11 lives during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) victory celebrations for their IPL trophy after 18 years, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara clarified on Thursday that it was not the government that orchestrated the event.

Speaking to the media, HM Parameshwara stated, "We did not request the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise or the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) to bring the players for the victory celebrations."

He further added, "While the government wanted to honor the players, it was primarily the KSCA and RCB who organized the event. We will thoroughly investigate and provide answers once all the facts are gathered."

"Fortunately, no incidents occurred at Vidhana Soudha. This situation is tragic, and I extend my condolences to the families affected. Eleven innocent lives have been lost, and I pray for their strength during this difficult time," HM Parameshwara expressed.

He emphasized that until the inquiry is complete, no conclusions can be drawn regarding the incident. "If any negligence is identified, strict actions will be taken against those accountable, regardless of their status," he warned.

HM Parameshwara noted that many of the deceased were young, aged between 20 and 25 years, who were there to celebrate. He assured that measures would be implemented to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Currently, there have been 11 fatalities confirmed, with 56 injuries reported. Among the injured, 46 have been discharged after treatment, while 10 remain hospitalized but in stable condition.

"To avert similar occurrences, the government, along with the Home Department, will establish a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for organizing major events in accordance with police guidelines," he stated.

The Chief Minister has initiated a magisterial inquiry, led by the Deputy Commissioner of Bengaluru Urban district, and no statements will be made until the inquiry is concluded.

Compensations have been announced, with the government providing Rs 10 lakh and the KSCA offering Rs 5 lakh. This process is currently underway.

"I will visit the site to discuss this tragedy with officials and KSCA representatives. There are numerous questions surrounding this incident, and we will address them after the inquiry. Any lapses identified will be dealt with accordingly," he said.

In the meantime, the Karnataka Police have registered Unnatural Death Cases (UDR) related to the stampede, with Cubbon Park police confirming the registration of 11 UDR cases and no FIRs.

This decision has sparked outrage, as the police could have pursued charges against the KSCA and the event management company involved. To date, no one has accepted responsibility, and the UDR cases were initiated following directives from senior officers.