A significant controversy has erupted within the Bengaluru police force following the suspension of senior officers in the aftermath of a tragic stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium during an IPL victory celebration. The incident resulted in 11 fatalities and has led to widespread discontent among police personnel.

The suspension of Bengaluru City Police Commissioner B. Dayananda and four other senior officers has been met with anger and a sense of betrayal within the police ranks. Many officers argue that they are being unfairly scapegoated, asserting that they were acting under directives from the Chief Minister’s office to make full arrangements for the event despite known risks. This has raised questions about accountability and the internal dynamics between police leadership and the political establishment .

The incident has also sparked political turmoil. Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has demanded the resignation of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, criticizing their handling of the situation and accusing them of negligence. Joshi highlighted that the Deputy CM called fans to a celebration via social media and participated in receiving the IPL team despite the tragedy .

Additionally, JD(S) working president S.R. Mahesh has labeled the stampede as an intelligence failure, demanding action against top officials, including Intelligence ADGP Hemanth Nimbalkar. Mahesh suggested that Nimbalkar was spared accountability due to his wife’s political connections and called for the reinstatement of the suspended police officers .

The situation continues to evolve, with the police force’s morale affected and political tensions escalating over the handling of the tragic event.

sources