Is BJP Playing Politics Over the Bengaluru Stampede Tragedy?
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Synopsis
The recent stampede during the RCB victory celebrations has sparked outrage as Karnataka's Deputy CM, D.K. Shivakumar, accuses the BJP of exploiting the tragedy for political purposes. With at least 11 lives lost, this situation raises serious questions about political accountability and public safety during large events.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka's Deputy CM criticizes BJP for politicizing the stampede tragedy.
- At least 11 fatalities reported, with over 30 injured.
- The government had cancelled the victory parade to ensure public safety.
- Compensation of Rs 10 lakh announced for victims' families.
- A magisterial inquiry has been ordered.
Bengaluru, June 5 (NationPress) Expressing profound sorrow over the tragic deaths caused by the stampede during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) victory celebrations, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of exploiting the situation for political gain.
"Numerous individuals have tragically lost their lives in this stampede while their families are in mourning. However, the callous BJP is preoccupied with playing politics over these deaths. Such a tragedy should never have occurred, but it did," he stated while addressing reporters at Chief Minister's office Krishna.
"This moment should be devoted to caring for the injured and mourning the deceased, rather than engaging in politics over dead bodies," the Deputy Chief Minister emphasized.
He noted that the RCB team had requested an open-vehicle parade starting from HAL airport, but local police advised against it due to potential law and order issues. Following discussions with the Chief Minister, they decided to deny permission for any victory parade.
Earlier on the same day, the BJP criticized State Home Minister G. Parameshwara on social media, labelling him ineffective for not permitting the RCB victory parade. In a twist, the BJP is now blaming the Congress party for failing to prevent this tragedy. This reflects the BJP's opportunism in politicizing this incident without allowing families to grieve properly," he remarked.
The Deputy CM visited the injured at Bowring Hospital, conveying his sympathies. "We had cancelled the victory parade as a precaution, yet the stampede still occurred. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims," he said.
"The police took necessary precautions, but the crowd surged unexpectedly. Many attendees arrived via Metro as well," he added.
Responding to the BJP and JD-S criticism, he stated, "The same police who served during their administration are still serving now."
In an earlier post on X, the Deputy CM expressed, "The individuals who came to celebrate RCB's IPL victory have unfortunately become victims of this tragedy. The loss of life is incredibly painful and shocking. My condolences to the deceased and my sympathies to their families. While the passion for the game is significant, nothing surpasses the value of life itself. I urge everyone to prioritize safety."
The stampede occurred as thousands of fans rushed to enter the Chinnaswamy Stadium from multiple gates.
Police at the scene quickly transported the injured to nearby hospitals, including Bowring and Vaidehi.
Prior to the incident, the Karnataka government had cancelled the RCB's victory parade from Vidhana Soudha to Chinnaswamy Stadium for security reasons. Police had been managing the celebrating crowds since Tuesday night to prevent any incidents.
The Karnataka government has reported that at least 11 individuals have died and more than 30 others have sustained injuries in the stampede near Chinnaswamy Stadium.
The state government has announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased and has initiated a magisterial inquiry.
Point of View
It is crucial to maintain an unbiased perspective. The focus should be on understanding the events leading to the tragedy and ensuring accountability for public safety. The politicization of such incidents only distracts from the core issue: the need for a comprehensive approach to crowd management during large-scale events.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the stampede during the RCB victory celebrations?
The stampede occurred as thousands of fans rushed to enter the Chinnaswamy Stadium, leading to a surge that resulted in fatalities and injuries.
How many people were affected by the stampede?
The Karnataka government has reported that at least 11 individuals lost their lives and over 30 others were injured in the incident.
What measures did authorities take to manage the crowd?
Police were actively managing the crowd and had advised against an open-vehicle parade to maintain law and order, which was ultimately cancelled.
What has the Karnataka government announced in response to the tragedy?
The Karnataka government announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased and ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident.
What political accusations have arisen following the tragedy?
Deputy CM Shivakumar accused the BJP of politicizing the tragedy, stating they are using the situation for political gain while families are mourning.
