Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar accuses BJP and JD(S) of politicizing Bengaluru stampede

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has accused the opposition parties, BJP and JD(S), of engaging in "politics over dead bodies" following the tragic stampede on June 4 in Bengaluru that resulted in 11 fatalities. The incident took place on Wednesday evening outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium, where crowds had gathered for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) IPL victory celebration. In addition to the 11 fatalities, 56 other individuals were injured. Shivakumar, responding to accusations and demands for his resignation from the BJP and JD(S), questioned what grounds they had for targeting him. "They are trying to politicize the tragedy. We are acting with sincerity… In what way am I responsible?" he asked during a press briefing. He explained that the Karnataka State Cricket Association sought government permission to hold the event, noting, "I'm the Minister for Bengaluru. I attended the event in my official capacity. There's nothing wrong with that." Shivakumar also mentioned that he had gone to the airport to receive the RCB team and urged them to cooperate, as there was no permit for the victory procession. He clarified that he had no prior information about the stampede fatalities. The opposition BJP and JD(S) have criticized the Congress government for allegedly making police officers scapegoats by suspending them, and asserted that the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar should bear the responsibility and resign. In response to the suspension of five police officials, including the police commissioner, Shivakumar explained that this decision was made after a cabinet discussion. He dismissed suggestions that actions should be taken against higher officials, stating, "We know what needs to be done. We won't act based on criticism. The people have trusted us with power." When questioned about demands for his resignation, the Deputy CM sarcastically remarked, "They are seeking my resignation. Fine, let's fulfill their desire…". He also targeted JD(S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy, commenting on their emotional expressions, "They mention me getting emotional over the stampede, but didn't they shed tears during the election? I'm not one to comment on personal matters…" Shivakumar remarked on reports of a potential BJP-JD(S) alliance against the Congress government, suggesting that they have always collaborated. He hinted at having insider knowledge on their actions and added, "God has given me some understanding." He concluded by stating that steps are being taken to investigate the stampede thoroughly, with a magistrate, a one-man commission led by a retired high court judge, and the CID all conducting inquiries. The government is committed to ensuring justice for the victims, he affirmed.