Karnataka Deputy CM Emotional Over Bengaluru Stampede Tragedy
Emotional Response from Karnataka Deputy CM
On Thursday, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar expressed his deep sorrow while speaking to the media regarding the recent stampede in Bengaluru. He acknowledged the need for the government to take administrative lessons from this unfortunate event. Shivakumar criticized the opposition for using the tragedy for political gain, stating that it pains him to see the suffering of the victims, especially the children involved. Eleven lives were lost, and many others were injured during the stampede that occurred at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, where thousands had gathered to celebrate the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) historic IPL 2025 victory. The Karnataka government had honored the RCB players at Vidhana Soudha on June 5.
#WATCH | Bengaluru: Karnataka DCM DK Shivakumar breaks down as he comes out to address the media for the first time after the #BengaluruStampede. pic.twitter.com/1GDMZOBAm4
— Media Channel June 5, 2025
Karnataka Home Minister's Statement
In a related development, Karnataka's Home Minister G Parameshwara visited the site of the stampede on Thursday. He clarified that the state government did not request the RCB or the Karnataka Cricket Association to hold the victory celebrations at the stadium. Additionally, he announced that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident.
Parameshwara stated, "We did not ask RCB or the KCA to organize the event; they took the initiative themselves. The government felt it was appropriate to support this celebration since it involved the Bengaluru team. I am truly saddened by this incident."
Earlier, the Karnataka government declared a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased. CM Siddaramaiah, during a press briefing, assured that the injured would receive free medical treatment.
"A significant tragedy occurred during the victory celebrations near Chinnaswamy Stadium. The government has announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for those who lost their lives, and we will cover the medical expenses for the injured," the CM remarked.