Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Responds to BJP's Criticism Over Bengaluru Stampede

In the wake of a tragic stampede at Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium that claimed 11 lives, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has criticized the BJP for politicizing the incident. He defended the government's actions against negligent officials while the BJP accused the state of only acting under pressure. The political tensions have escalated, with calls for investigations into the roles of senior cabinet members. This article delves into the unfolding political drama and the government's response to the tragedy.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 6, 2025, 14:30 IST

Political Tensions Rise After Bengaluru Stampede

Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has expressed his discontent with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for allegedly politicizing the tragic stampede that occurred at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, leading to the loss of 11 lives. His remarks followed the BJP's claims that the Congress-led government was using the police as a 'scapegoat' for the unfortunate incident.

CM Siddaramaiah emphasized that the state administration has already initiated disciplinary measures against officials deemed 'clearly responsible' and 'negligent in their duties.' He stated, 'They are engaging in political maneuvering. I refrain from such politics. We have acted against those who were evidently at fault and negligent in their responsibilities.'

In response, Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra accused the state government of only responding to the situation under pressure. He remarked, 'The government has only taken action after facing pressure... Measures have been implemented against RCB and the Karnataka Cricket Association. Just yesterday, the Chief Minister abruptly suspended senior police officials, including the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner and five others.'

Vijayendra also pointed fingers at prominent cabinet members, including CM Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, and Home Minister G. Parameshwara, calling for an investigation into their involvement in the stampede. He asserted, 'The primary accused is Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, followed by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Home Minister G. Parameshwara. They must be thoroughly investigated.'

In the aftermath of the tragic incident on June 4, the Karnataka police took swift action by suspending several IPS officers, including Bengaluru City Police Commissioner B. Dayananda. Senior IPS officer Seemant Kumar Singh has been appointed as the new city police commissioner. Alongside Dayananda, Additional Commissioner of Police Vikash Kumar, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Shekhar H.T., Assistant Commissioner of Police Balakrishna, and Cubbon Park Police Inspector Girish A.K. were also suspended immediately.