Karnataka High Court to Hear RCB's Plea Against Stampede Case: What’s at Stake?
RCB Challenges Criminal Case in High Court
Bengaluru: The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have approached the Karnataka High Court to dismiss the criminal charges related to the tragic stampede incident that occurred on June 4, resulting in 11 fatalities.
The Cubbon Park Police initiated the case following the stampede, and RCB's petition was filed by Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited along with its COO, Rajesh V. Menon. They argue that the Congress-led government had authorized the celebration at Chinnaswamy Stadium.
In support of their claim, RCB presented a social media post from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who encouraged citizens to attend the celebration, describing the team's victory as historic. The petition emphasizes that not only were RCB players invited, but the public was also welcomed to join the festivities.
The petition contends that the FIR against RCB is unjust and misuses legal provisions, asserting that inviting the public to the event should not be deemed a criminal offense.
It further points out that CM Siddaramaiah had similarly invited the public, indicating no criminal intent or negligence on RCB's part.
The petition elaborates on RCB's thorough preparations for the event, which included extensive discussions with DNA Event Management and officials from the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA).
It also mentions that the police had verbally confirmed the victory parade and celebrations for June 4, with RCB stating that entry was limited to registered attendees to manage crowd size.
However, on the morning of June 4, police informed RCB of the parade's cancellation, while simultaneously indicating that the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister would honor the players at Vidhana Soudha.
The felicitation took place at Vidhana Soudha, after which RCB received permission to proceed with the celebrations at the stadium. RCB claims they were only made aware of the stampede casualties during the event, prompting an immediate end to the celebrations.
The KSCA has also placed blame on the government for the stampede, and the High Court had previously granted immunity to KSCA officials from police action.
In related developments, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is expected to seek custody of Nikhil Sosale, RCB's Marketing Head, whose arrest is being challenged in court. Other individuals from DNA Event Management have also been arrested, and the CID is pursuing their custody.
The CID plans to interrogate KSCA officials who have received protection from the High Court against police coercion.
In response to public outcry, the state government has raised the compensation for victims from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 25 lakh and has suspended five senior police officers, including the Bengaluru Police Commissioner.