Should Police Take Coercive Action Against RCB and DNA Officials in Stampede Case?
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Synopsis
The Karnataka High Court has commanded the police to refrain from taking coercive actions against officials from the Royal Challengers Bengaluru and DNA event management firm in the wake of the tragic stampede that resulted in 11 deaths. This ruling aims to ensure a fair investigation while addressing public concerns regarding safety measures during such events.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka High Court instructed police to halt coercive actions against accused officials.
- Ongoing investigations by the CID into the stampede incident.
- Next court hearing set for July 8.
- Concerns raised over adherence to Standard Operating Procedures at large events.
- Public safety measures remain a paramount focus for authorities.
Bengaluru, June 17 (NationPress) The Karnataka High Court has issued a directive on Tuesday instructing the police to refrain from taking coercive measures, such as making arrests, against officials or representatives of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise and the DNA event management firm, who are implicated in the June 4 stampede incident that resulted in 11 fatalities.
This ruling was announced by a Bench led by Justice S.R. Krishna Kumar.
The court documented the statement from the Special Public Prosecutor, affirming that the police would not pursue any forceful actions concerning the two First Information Reports (FIRs) associated with the case.
The Special Public Prosecutor informed the court that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) will maintain the investigation concerning the initial FIR related to the incident.
The Bench indicated that this order would remain in effect until the next hearing on July 8 and urged the petitioners to assist with the investigation.
Additionally, the Bench acknowledged that, given the ongoing investigation, the police will not advance further with the FIRs, as their content and subjects overlap.
Meanwhile, Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) President Raghuram Bhat provided his statement to the Deputy Commissioner of Bengaluru Urban, G. Jagadeesha, who has been appointed by the state government to examine the issue.
Reports indicate that Bhat spent 40 minutes delivering his statement at the Deputy Commissioner's office.
Last Thursday, the state government submitted a detailed report regarding the June 4 Chinnaswamy Stadium stampede case to the Karnataka High Court in a sealed envelope.
The court raised inquiries about the several enquiry commissions established to investigate the tragedy.
A Division Bench, presided over by Acting Chief Justice V.K. Rao and Justice C.M. Joshi, which had taken suo motu cognizance of the situation, instructed the prosecution to secure all communication, both prior and subsequent to the stampede incident, under the custody of the Chief Secretary of Karnataka.
The Bench expressed concerns regarding the investigations being conducted by multiple agencies as directed by the state government.
It cautioned Advocate General Shashi Kiran Shetty about the risk of conflicting findings, stating, “We will not overlook you if the findings from different commissions diverge.”
On June 5, the High Court requested a report from the state government regarding any lapses and additional details related to the stampede. Acknowledging the incident, the High Court initiated a suo motu Public Interest Litigation.
Showing concern over the tragedy, the Bench queried the government on whether the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) were adhered to and if sufficient guidelines were established to manage the situation at Chinnaswamy Stadium during the victory celebrations.
Point of View
It is essential to balance accountability with the need for an unbiased investigation. The court's decision to prevent coercive actions against RCB and DNA officials reflects a commitment to ensuring that justice is served without compromising the ongoing inquiry. As national discourse revolves around public safety during large events, it remains crucial for authorities to adhere to established protocols.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the Karnataka High Court decide regarding the stampede case?
The Karnataka High Court directed the police not to take coercive actions, such as arrests, against officials or representatives of RCB and DNA, who are implicated in the stampede case.
How many lives were lost in the June 4 stampede?
The June 4 stampede tragically resulted in the loss of 11 lives.
When is the next hearing for the case scheduled?
The next hearing for the case is scheduled for July 8.
Who is conducting the investigation into the stampede?
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is continuing the investigation into the initial FIR related to the stampede.
What concerns did the court raise regarding the investigation?
The court expressed concerns over multiple enquiry commissions potentially leading to conflicting findings and questioned whether proper safety procedures were followed during the event.
