Should Siddaramaiah Resign Over the Bengaluru Stampede?

Synopsis
In a striking demand, the Janata Dal (United) has urged the resignation of Karnataka's Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah, following a tragic stampede in Bengaluru that claimed 11 lives. The call for accountability comes amidst controversial remarks linking the incident to past disasters, stirring a heated political debate.
Key Takeaways
- The JD(U) has called for Siddaramaiah's resignation over the Bengaluru stampede.
- Siddaramaiah's comparison of the incident with past tragedies has sparked controversy.
- The Karnataka government is criticized for inadequate preventive measures.
- Political discussions on the Pahalgam terror attack are anticipated in the upcoming Monsoon session.
- Congress accuses the Central government of avoiding urgent discussions.
Patna, June 5 (NationPress) The Janata Dal (United) has called for the resignation of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in light of the recent Bengaluru stampede that resulted in the tragic loss of 11 lives. The party criticized his comments regarding the Kumbh Mela disaster while discussing this recent calamity.
During a press conference, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated, "Numerous stampedes have taken place, and some worse than this. While I do not wish to justify the incident, I recall that during the Kumbh Mela, approximately 50 to 60 individuals lost their lives."
In response to Siddaramaiah's statements, JD(U) leader Rajeev Ranjan Prasad condemned his remarks as "shameful and irresponsible." He emphasized, "This is an unacceptable effort to evade accountability. By drawing comparisons to past tragedies, the Chief Minister undermines the responsibilities of an elected government. The Karnataka administration failed to gauge the extensive public participation during the celebrations. Essential preventive measures were neglected, resulting in numerous casualties and injuries. Furthermore, post-incident arrangements by officials were insufficient. This represents a complete breakdown in administration, and we insist on the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah."
Prasad also addressed the Congress party's call for discussions regarding the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor during the upcoming Monsoon session of Parliament.
He remarked, "During the Monsoon session, every political entity, not just Congress, will voice their significant concerns. The ruling party will provide appropriate responses. However, those who consistently undermine the valor of the Indian Army and cannot accept the success of Operation Sindoor are the ones genuinely disheartened. The world recognizes India's military prowess and diplomatic strength. In these times, Congress should transcend petty political motives and unite with the nation."
Meanwhile, the Congress party has accused the Central government of scheduling the Monsoon session 47 days earlier than planned to sidestep an immediate special session.
Alongside other members of the INDIA bloc, the party has called for a discussion on the Pahalgam terror attack.