Siddaramaiah Says He Learned of Stampede Deaths Only After Celebrations; BJP Demands Resignation

Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah said he learned of the Chinnaswamy Stadium stampede deaths only after 5:45 pm on June 4. The BJP blamed the Congress government for negligence, demanded resignations, and criticised the continued celebrations. The CM denied government involvement, calling the event privately organised by the cricket association.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday stated he was informed of the stampede deaths outside Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium only at 5:45 pm on June 4—nearly two hours after hospital reports confirmed the first fatalities. The incident, which occurred during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL victory celebration, resulted in 11 deaths and over 50 injuries.

Speaking to the media, Siddaramaiah distanced himself and his cabinet from the event, stating that it was organised independently by the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and not the state government. He denied attending or planning the stadium event and said his involvement was limited to a separate felicitation at Vidhana Soudha.

A letter from the Vidhana Soudha security officer, which surfaced earlier, had warned of inadequate arrangements for large crowds. Despite this, the event proceeded. Siddaramaiah maintained that approval was granted only after consultation with the Chief Secretary and assurances from police.

His remarks came as the BJP intensified its attack on the Congress-led government. Party leaders staged a protest at Vidhana Soudha, demanding the resignation of Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, and Home Minister G Parameshwara. Leader of Opposition R Ashok condemned the continuation of celebrations even after multiple deaths had occurred, calling it “inhuman.”

BJP MLA Prabhu Chavan claimed that senior police officers were being scapegoated, including suspended Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda. He urged the government to take moral responsibility instead of offering financial compensation. The BJP is also seeking the Governor’s intervention for the government’s dismissal.

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Responding to calls for his resignation, Siddaramaiah said past tragedies under BJP leadership did not result in resignations either, accusing the opposition of politicising the tragedy. Meanwhile, the controversy continues to escalate ahead of the monsoon session.