Tragic Stampede at RCB Celebration: Calls for Accountability Rise

Overview of the Incident

Bengaluru: A tragic stampede during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) victory celebration at Chinnaswamy Stadium has raised serious concerns about event management. Authorities had previously warned that a large influx of fans was expected at Vidhana Soudha, indicating a risk of overcrowding.

Consequences and Arrests

In the aftermath, two senior officials from the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) have resigned. The state government is facing increasing scrutiny regarding its involvement in the incident. Nikhil Sosale, RCB's head of marketing and revenue, was detained at Bengaluru airport while attempting to leave for Mumbai with his family. An FIR has been lodged against the Karnataka Cricket Association, the RCB franchise, and the event management firm DNA Entertainment, following the stampede that resulted in 11 fatalities and over 50 injuries.

Police Concerns Prior to the Event

A letter from Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) MN Karibasavana Gowda, written on the day of the incident, highlighted the anticipated arrival of thousands of cricket fans at Vidhana Soudha. The letter noted a shortage of security personnel, which would complicate crowd control efforts. This communication was also shared with the then-police commissioner B Dayananda and chief secretary Shalini Rajneesh, yet the event proceeded as planned.

Gowda's letter raised alarms about security measures, the time needed for essential preparations, and potential threats at ten public locations. He also pointed out the venue's sensitive nature and the lack of sufficient CCTV coverage to oversee the event. Reports indicate that senior IAS officer G Sathyavathi, responsible for the event at Vidhana Soudha, had urged fans to head to Chinnaswamy Stadium before the stampede occurred.

Political Repercussions

BJP leader CT Ravi has placed the blame for the tragedy on Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, asserting that such an event could not have taken place without their approval. He questioned the rationale behind allowing the event to proceed despite police warnings.

"Under what pressure was permission granted for this event at Chinnaswamy Stadium? Shouldn't that individual be investigated?" he asked. Ravi has called for an independent judicial inquiry led by the Chief Justice of the High Court to examine the events leading to the tragedy, demanding the resignations of CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar.