BJP Blames Karnataka Government for Tragic Stampede During RCB Celebrations

The BJP has launched a scathing attack on the Karnataka government following a tragic stampede during RCB celebrations in Bengaluru, which resulted in multiple fatalities. Party leaders are demanding accountability from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Home Minister G Parameshwara, accusing them of negligence and poor planning. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi and other BJP spokespersons have criticized the government's handling of the situation, calling for a thorough investigation. As the state grapples with the aftermath, the political implications of this incident are unfolding.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 4, 2025, 21:27 IST

Political Fallout from Bengaluru Stampede

New Delhi: On Wednesday, the BJP criticized the Congress-led Karnataka government following a deadly stampede during celebrations for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Bengaluru, insisting that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Home Minister G Parameshwara should be held accountable for the tragedy.

B Y Vijayendra, the head of the Karnataka BJP, accused the Siddaramaiah administration of inadequately preparing for the event and exerting pressure on law enforcement, leading to a lack of proper crowd control.

The stampede, which occurred near Chinnaswamy Stadium, resulted in eleven fatalities and left 33 others injured as a massive crowd gathered to celebrate RCB's first IPL victory.

Vijayendra questioned the government's preparedness, asking, "Shouldn't the state have anticipated the influx of thousands of fans?"

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi echoed these sentiments, attributing the incident to the government's poor planning and demanding accountability.

He expressed his sorrow over the loss of life due to inadequate crowd management, stating, "This tragedy could have been prevented with better organization."

Joshi emphasized that the state government had clearly failed in its duties, criticizing the lack of coordination with emergency services during the event.

In response, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced a magisterial inquiry into the incident, accusing the BJP of politicizing the tragedy.

BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla condemned the state government for what he termed "state-sponsored negligence," asserting that the celebration turned into a disaster under their watch.

He called for both the Home Minister and Chief Minister to take responsibility, labeling the situation as a failure of law and order.

Another BJP spokesperson, Pradeep Bhandari, described the government's actions as "criminal negligence," highlighting the loss of innocent lives due to the lack of crowd management.

Bhandari criticized the Congress government for prioritizing celebrations over public safety, stating, "The people are suffering due to their negligence and arrogance."