Shouldn't Accountability Be Demanded After the Chinnaswamy Stadium Stampede?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Former cricketer Manoj Tiwari expresses deep concern over the tragic stampede outside Chinnaswamy Stadium. He emphasizes the need for accountability and better planning to prevent such heartbreaking incidents. This alarming event raises critical questions about the responsibilities of event organizers and authorities in ensuring public safety during large gatherings.
Key Takeaways
- Manoj Tiwari demands accountability for the Chinnaswamy Stadium tragedy.
- 11 lives were lost due to the stampede during RCB's IPL celebration.
- Importance of proper planning and foresight in event management.
- Government pledges to cover medical costs for the injured.
- A Magisterial Inquiry has been initiated for thorough investigation.
Howrah, June 5 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer and TMC MLA Manoj Tiwari has described the stampede that occurred outside Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium as a “heartbreaking and profoundly distressing” incident that could have been prevented with improved planning and foresight.
His comments emerged in the wake of Wednesday's tragic event, which resulted in the loss of 11 lives and numerous injuries as fans attempted to witness the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) celebrating their first IPL title.
“What transpired yesterday was a remarkably tragic occurrence. None of us could have envisioned this. The supporters who gathered to celebrate the victory would never have imagined that they would lose their lives. While festivities were in full swing inside, people were perishing outside. Someone needs to take accountability,” Tiwari stated in an interview with IANS.
He vehemently criticized the authorities and event organizers for hastily conducting the celebration without evaluating the risks associated with a large public turnout. “Couldn’t the celebration have been postponed by a day or two? That would have allowed sufficient time for proper preparation. You must anticipate the emotional scale and the number of attendees,” he remarked.
Reflecting on how celebrations were managed after the Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL victory in 2012, Tiwari noted, “Our Chief Minister back then, Manohar Rao, waited two days before orchestrating a celebration. That’s the kind of seasoned leadership that averts such tragedies. I did not observe any such planning or foresight here.”
Tiwari further demanded accountability from all parties involved — including the state government, police, security personnel, and RCB’s management. “Human life must always take precedence over celebrations. This is not merely a lapse; it signifies a failure of collective responsibility.”
To commemorate RCB’s historic IPL title win, thousands of fans gathered outside Chinnaswamy Stadium to catch a glimpse of their idols, including Virat Kohli — the cornerstone of the franchise since 2008. The team, having arrived in Bengaluru earlier that day, was met with a special reception at Vidhana Soudha by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, prior to heading to the stadium.
However, what began as a moment of celebration swiftly transformed into tragedy. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the crowd surged, leading to chaos as fans attempted to force their way through the gates. Police struggled to manage the increasing numbers, and reports suggest that they resorted to lathi charges to disperse the crowd. The celebrations were abruptly halted.
In response, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah pledged that the government would cover the full medical expenses for all injured individuals, regardless of whether they were treated in government or private facilities. "Orders have been issued to the Health Department and Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust (SAST) to ensure this is executed promptly," he stated.
Additionally, a Magisterial Inquiry has been initiated, with the Deputy Commissioner of Bengaluru Urban District appointed to lead the investigation and submit a report within 15 days. Based on the findings, Siddaramaiah assured that “appropriate action will be undertaken.”
The Karnataka Police have filed 11 Unnatural Death (UDR) cases related to the fatalities, although no FIR has yet been lodged. The Cubbon Park Police Station is managing the situation, and investigations are ongoing.
Point of View
It is my responsibility to ensure that our coverage remains unbiased and informative. The tragic stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium raises significant concerns about public safety during large events. It underscores the critical importance of meticulous planning and preparedness by organizers and authorities to prevent such devastating outcomes. We must prioritize human life over celebrations.
NationPress
25/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the stampede outside Chinnaswamy Stadium?
The stampede was triggered by a large surge of fans attempting to enter the stadium, leading to chaos and overcrowding.
How many people were affected by the incident?
The tragic incident resulted in the loss of 11 lives and left several others injured.
What actions are being taken in response to the stampede?
A Magisterial Inquiry has been initiated, and the Karnataka government has pledged to cover the medical costs for all injured individuals.
Who is responsible for the event's planning?
The responsibility lies with the event organizers, the state government, and security personnel to ensure public safety during large gatherings.
What lessons can be learned from this tragedy?
This incident highlights the necessity for thorough risk assessments and proper planning to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
