Is BJP's Call for Resignation Over Stampede a Political Move?
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Synopsis
In a recent statement, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah accused the BJP of politicizing the stampede tragedy at Chinnaswamy Stadium, which resulted in 11 fatalities. He questioned the BJP's integrity and pointed out their double standards in demanding his resignation.
Key Takeaways
- BJP's resignation demand is seen as politically motivated.
- CM Siddaramaiah questions the BJP's integrity and past accountability.
- Investigation into the stampede to conclude in 30 days.
- Karnataka government prioritizes education and rural development.
- Strong financial performance reported by the state government.
Chikkaballapura (Karnataka), June 11 (NationPress) Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday accused the BJP of politicizing every issue and misleading people with false statements while demanding resignations that he described as purely for political gain.
Speaking to the media at the Bommasandra village helipad in Gauribidanur, CM Siddaramaiah responded to the BJP’s protests demanding his resignation over the tragic stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium during the victory celebrations of the RCB, which resulted in the loss of 11 lives in Bengaluru.
He questioned, “During the Maha Kumbh Mela, 40 to 50 individuals died in a stampede. Did anyone call for the resignation of the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister? During COVID, when 23 people perished due to oxygen shortages, did former CM Basavaraj Bommai step down in Karnataka?”
When asked if the various commissions established to investigate the stampede would yield conclusive results, Siddaramaiah mentioned that a one-man commission has been created to look into the matter and will present its report within 30 days. “I prefer not to elaborate further on this issue,” he added.
He asserted that the BJP’s demand for his resignation is politically motivated and devoid of any merit.
On the topic of the ED raids concerning Congress leaders in the Valmiki Board case, he stated, “If any laws have been violated, we will not endorse it. Legal action should be pursued accordingly, and we will not hinder its execution.”
Regarding the caste census resurvey, the Chief Minister indicated that there have been some complaints. “The previous survey is a decade old and no longer relevant. The Congress leadership has mandated a fresh survey to be completed promptly. We are not dismissing the report; we have accepted it in principle,” he explained.
Responding to Home Minister G. Parameshwara's suggestion to rename Tumakuru district as North Bengaluru, CM Siddaramaiah said it will be evaluated when it is presented to the Cabinet.
When questioned about his disappointment with the party leadership’s stance on the H. Kantharaju Commission's caste census report, he remarked, “We will follow the decisions made by the party leadership. This is not a matter of personal opinion.”
Discussing the Karnataka government's commitment to primary and secondary education, he noted, “Guest lecturers have been appointed to fill vacancies in state universities. More lecturers will be recruited, their salaries increased, and necessary facilities will be provided.”
On centrally-sponsored schemes, CM Siddaramaiah elaborated, “Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, the state government contributes 50%, the Centre 30%, and beneficiaries 20%. Although the National Health Mission requires a larger state contribution, it is branded as Ayushman Bharat. Many central schemes feature the Prime Minister’s name. Under the Kusum-B scheme, the Centre provides 30%. If we do not comply, we risk losing that funding. To support farmers and facilitate rural development, we are compelled to cooperate.”
CM Siddaramaiah indicated that the Yettinahole project is anticipated to be completed in two years, with a meeting of ministers, MLAs, and officials from the relevant region already convened.
“The financial status of the state is robust. Funds have been allocated for both guarantee schemes and development initiatives,” Siddaramaiah stated in response to a media inquiry.
He highlighted that last year’s capital expenditure was Rs 52,000 crore, rising to Rs 83,000 crore this year — an increase of Rs 31,000 crore. “How can a government with such expenditures go bankrupt? Over Rs 50,000 crore has been earmarked for guarantee schemes,” he emphasized.
“Over the past two years, our administration has fulfilled 242 out of 593 commitments. In contrast, the central government has delivered on only about 10% of its 600 promises,” he concluded.
Point of View
The ongoing political tensions in Karnataka highlight the complexities of accountability and the role of political parties in addressing tragic events. The allegations of politicization by CM Siddaramaiah suggest a deeper narrative about governance, responsibility, and the framing of public discourse in times of crisis.
NationPress
13/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the BJP's demand for CM Siddaramaiah's resignation?
The BJP demanded Siddaramaiah's resignation following a stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium that resulted in 11 fatalities, accusing him of failing to ensure safety.
How did CM Siddaramaiah respond to the resignation demand?
Siddaramaiah accused the BJP of politicizing the tragedy and stated that their demand was without merit, pointing out past incidents where similar accountability was not sought.
What is the status of the investigation into the stampede?
A one-man commission has been established to investigate the stampede, and it is expected to submit its report within 30 days.
What are the key issues discussed by CM Siddaramaiah regarding governance?
Siddaramaiah discussed the importance of education, the caste census, and the impact of centrally-sponsored schemes on rural development.
How has the Karnataka government performed in fulfilling its promises?
Siddaramaiah claimed that his government has fulfilled 242 out of 593 promises in the past two years, contrasting it with the central government's performance.
