State Government Slams Police for Acting as RCB’s “Servants”
Legal Challenge Over Suspension Linked to RCB Stampede Incident
In a scathing assessment following the IPL 2025 stampede incident, the Karnataka State Government has strongly criticized the role of the state police, alleging that they acted as “servants” of the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) franchise instead of maintaining law and order. This harsh rebuke comes in the wake of mounting public pressure and media scrutiny regarding the tragic crowd mishap that occurred during RCB’s celebratory event.
Police Role Questioned in Safety Oversight
According to the preliminary findings shared by the state’s home department, police officials allegedly prioritized the demands of RCB management over their core responsibility of ensuring public safety. The report claims that officers failed to enforce crowd control measures and ignored safety protocols, leading to a chaotic stampede outside the stadium gates that resulted in multiple injuries and several fatalities.
RCB-Police Coordination Under Scanner
The government has hinted at a cozy relationship between the RCB franchise and local law enforcement. Senior ministers remarked that police officers were seen taking direct instructions from team officials rather than following the operational plan vetted by the state. This allegation raises serious concerns about the impartiality and autonomy of the police during high-profile events.
Public Backlash and Legal Repercussions
The incident has triggered widespread public outrage, with citizens and civil rights groups demanding accountability from both RCB and the police department. A criminal negligence case is being prepared, and the state has promised strict disciplinary action against officers found guilty of dereliction of duty. Sources indicate that senior police officials might be transferred or suspended pending further inquiry.
Opposition Demands Resignation
Opposition leaders have seized the opportunity to attack the ruling party, accusing it of allowing corporate interests to compromise public safety. Some have demanded the resignation of the Home Minister and top police officials. “The government has blood on its hands for prioritizing IPL glamour over people’s lives,” an opposition spokesperson stated during a press conference.
KSCA Also Under Fire
Apart from RCB and the police, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has also been called out for inadequate coordination and failure to implement security plans despite having prior warnings about overcrowding. The government has announced a comprehensive audit of all future IPL matches held in Bengaluru.