What Did the Panel Led by Retired HC Judge Michael D'Cunha Discover About the K'taka Stampede?
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Synopsis
On July 11, Justice Michael D'Cunha submitted his report on the K'taka stampede to CM Siddaramaiah. The investigation aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding the tragic event that resulted in 11 fatalities. With multiple probes underway, questions arise about accountability and the next steps for justice.
Key Takeaways
- The inquiry into the K'taka stampede is headed by Justice Michael D'Cunha.
- 11 lives were tragically lost during the incident.
- Multiple investigations are being conducted, including a magisterial probe.
- The report was submitted to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
- Concerns about accountability and government response have been raised.
Bengaluru, July 11 (NationPress) A one-man inquiry Commission, led by retired High Court Justice Michael D'Cunha, has submitted its findings to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah regarding the tragic stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium that resulted in the loss of 11 lives on June 4.
Justice D'Cunha presented the report during a meeting at Vidhana Soudha, attended by the Chief Minister's Legal Advisor and MLA A.S. Ponnanna, Karnataka Chief Secretary Shalini Rajaneesh, and other officials.
Details of the report are currently under wraps.
The state government established this one-man Commission on June 5, 2025, entrusting Justice D'Cunha with the task of uncovering the causes behind the stampede that occurred amid the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) victory celebration.
On June 7, the Karnataka government extended the Commission's term to further facilitate the investigation into this tragic event.
The Congress-led administration has initiated a comprehensive three-tier inquiry into the incident.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced a magisterial probe led by the Deputy Commissioner of Bengaluru City and District Magistrate, a Criminal Investigation Department (CID) investigation, alongside the judicial probe conducted by Justice D'Cunha.
Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy raised concerns regarding the government's multiple investigations, questioning, "Which report will be accepted?"
The FIR lodged by the Karnataka Police indicated that the accused parties, including the RCB franchise, event management company DNA, and the KSCA Administrative Committee, organized the victory celebration without the required permissions.
These parties have challenged the state's allegations in court, asserting that the government aims to shift the responsibility for the stampede tragedy.
Justice D'Cunha's commission is also looking into the Covid-19 scam and the fatalities due to oxygen shortages at the Chamarajanagar district hospital, with an expectation to submit its report in a timely manner.
The Chief Minister appointed the D'Cunha Commission to investigate the stampede case on June 5.
Due to the urgent nature of this inquiry, the Commission has been tasked with completing the investigation and delivering its findings to the state government within a month. The notification specifies that the Commission's term has been extended from August 1 to 31, 2025, to prioritize the stampede investigation.
Point of View
I view this tragic incident and the subsequent investigations as a critical moment for accountability in governance. The multiple probes reflect the government's commitment to uncovering the truth, but they also raise concerns about transparency and the potential for conflicting outcomes. A singular focus on justice for the victims is paramount.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who led the inquiry into the K'taka stampede?
The inquiry was led by retired High Court Justice Michael D'Cunha.
What was the outcome of the inquiry?
The inquiry report was submitted to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah but details have not yet been disclosed.
What are the other investigations related to the stampede?
In addition to Justice D'Cunha's report, a magisterial probe and a Criminal Investigation Department (CID) inquiry are also underway.
How many lives were lost in the stampede?
The tragic incident resulted in the loss of 11 lives.
What concerns were raised by Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy?
He questioned the necessity of multiple investigations and asked which report would be accepted.
