Why Did Rajbhar Express Grief Over RCB Victory Event Stampede?

Synopsis
In a heartfelt statement, O.P. Rajbhar addresses the tragic stampede at the RCB victory celebration, emphasizing the need for accountability and investigation into the chaos that claimed 11 lives. His remarks highlight the importance of safety measures during large gatherings, especially in light of unexpected crowd sizes.
Key Takeaways
- O.P. Rajbhar expressed condolences to the victims' families.
- The stampede resulted in 11 deaths and numerous injuries.
- There is an ongoing investigation into the causes of the incident.
- Rajbhar emphasized the need for better crowd management at events.
- Responsibility and accountability were stressed by Rajbhar and Siddaramaiah.
Lucknow, June 5 (NationPress) O.P. Rajbhar, the President of the Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) and Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Minister, expressed profound sadness over the unfortunate stampede that transpired during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) victory celebration, resulting in the loss of 11 lives and numerous injuries.
In an interview with IANS, Rajbhar remarked, “This is an extremely unfortunate occurrence. The precise causes of the stampede are currently being examined. We, alongside our party, extend our sincere condolences to the bereaved families of those who perished. A comprehensive investigation will reveal the truth behind this incident.”
Rajbhar elaborated on the turmoil, stating, “No one anticipated such a large crowd. Everyone was reveling in RCB’s victory when the stampede occurred. The reality of the tragedy only became evident once the crowd began to disperse. Upon notification to the administration, all other scheduled events were promptly suspended. Government officials quickly engaged in rescue efforts. The injured were rushed to medical facilities, while arrangements for the last rites of the deceased were initiated.”
Rajbhar responded to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s comments regarding refraining from comparisons to other tragedies, such as the Kumbh Mela stampede.
Siddaramaiah had previously stated, “I will not justify this incident by drawing parallels with stampedes in other locations. Similar incidents have occurred in the past, like at Kumbh Mela, which resulted in 50–60 fatalities, but I did not criticize it then. If the Congress chooses to condemn this now, that is their prerogative. Did I or the Karnataka government condemn it back then?”
Echoing Siddaramaiah’s sentiments, Rajbhar remarked, “Criticism is one thing, but acknowledging and taking responsibility is another. The crowd exceeded our expectations. This fact must be recognized. Our security measures were inadequate to handle the overwhelming attendance, leading to this tragic outcome.”
Rajbhar also commented on recent statements by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor regarding 'Operation Sindoor' and Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi’s critiques of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Tharoor defended India’s position amid India-Pakistan tensions, countering LoP Gandhi’s “Narendra Surrender” assertion, asserting there was no third-party interference in the conflict.
Tharoor expressed, “India did not require persuasion to halt. We clearly communicated that if Pakistan ceased hostilities, we would be ready to do the same. The US urging Pakistan to stop was not pressure on India — it was merely indicating our readiness for peace. It was a constructive action, not an imposition.”
In response, Rajbhar stated, “Tharoor is speaking the truth. When individuals travel abroad and grasp the situation closely, they begin to comprehend the broader context. Conversely, Rahul Gandhi consistently attempts to depict India unfavorably on international platforms. It appears as if the leaders of the Opposition have imbibed negativity from Pakistan, and that mindset persists.”
When questioned about the Opposition's call for a special session of Parliament to address the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and 'Operation Sindoor,' Rajbhar dismissed the criticism, stating, “When has the government ever shied away from discussions?”