Bengaluru Stampede: Joshi Blames Karnataka Government, Demands Resignations

In the wake of the Bengaluru stampede that claimed 11 lives during an RCB victory celebration, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has squarely blamed the Karnataka government. He has demanded the resignations of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, criticizing their handling of the event. Joshi stated that the government displayed irresponsibility and insensitivity, particularly pointing to the alleged disregard of warnings from the DCP regarding the risks of holding large celebrations shortly after the victory. He also mentioned the Police Commissioner’s request to postpone the event due to lack of adequate manpower. Joshi underscored the moral accountability of the state government for the tragic incident and criticized the suspension of police officials. The incident occurred after the RCB team was officially felicitated by the Karnataka government. Following the stampede, the government suspended top police officials and initiated a probe. Siddaramaiah stated that five officers of the police department have been suspended.