Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge Reflects on RCB Stampede: A Call for Better Planning
Tragic Stampede at RCB Victory Celebration
Bengaluru: On Thursday, Karnataka's Minister Priyank Kharge expressed that the tragic stampede incident could have been avoided with better event planning. He acknowledged that there were significant oversights.
Kharge, who is the son of Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, stated, “Everyone involved, including fans, could have contributed to preventing this tragedy.”
The stampede, which occurred during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) victory celebrations near Chinnaswamy Stadium, resulted in the deaths of at least 11 individuals and left around 40 others injured.
Addressing the media, Kharge, who oversees RDPR, IT, and BT, emphasized, “We are a responsible government and acknowledge our role in this incident. Each of us could have acted more prudently.”
He further remarked, “Whether it’s the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), the government, or the fans, we all share some responsibility. I am uncertain about the specifics of the situation or whether the necessary consultations were conducted by the team management, cricket association, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) with the Home Department.”
Kharge insisted, “We are not here to assign blame. The Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and Home Minister have accepted responsibility; this unfortunate event could have been avoided with better planning.”
He noted, “The excitement was overwhelming, especially after an 18-year wait for a victory. Regardless of the circumstances, we accept our responsibility and are implementing corrective actions.”
“The events unfolded rapidly. As stated by the Chief Minister and Home Minister, we will not defend our actions. There were clear lapses in planning,” he added.
Kharge pointed out, “The unexpected turnout of 250,000 to 300,000 people was a surprise, and the limited time for preparation—only 16 to 24 hours post-victory—was a significant factor. We did not foresee such a massive celebration.”
He assured that a magisterial inquiry would be conducted, with all parties questioned to understand the causes and prevent future occurrences. “Unlike other governments, we are taking moral responsibility and are committed to making necessary changes,” he stated.
Kharge also criticized the BJP, stating, “Yesterday, their official social media accounts suggested a grand victory parade, even proposing an open-bus celebration. The Home Minister had clearly indicated that this was not feasible. Now, they have deleted that tweet and are backtracking, claiming things could have been managed better.”
He concluded, “On one hand, they advocate for a grand celebration, and on the other, they condemn the incident. Politicizing such matters is inappropriate.”