B’luru stampede: Tribunal questions suspension of police officials

The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) has come down heavily on the Karnataka government over its decision to suspend five senior police officials in connection with the tragic stampede incident outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, which claimed the lives of 11 RCB fans earlier this month.

What was meant to be a moment of celebration turned into mourning for thousands of RCB supporters, as chaos during a victory event at the stadium led to a deadly stampede. The incident sparked national outrage, forcing the government to take swift action against top police officers.

However, the tribunal has questioned the rationale behind the suspensions. During a hearing on a petition filed by senior IPS officer Vikas Kumar challenging his suspension, the tribunal asked the state government why disciplinary action was initiated before the conclusion of the magisterial inquiry into the incident.

Further, the tribunal highlighted that the police had reportedly not granted permission for the victory event. “If police had not approved the event, on what basis were the officers suspended?” the bench asked, adding that the government must explain the basis of its decision. After hearing arguments, the tribunal has reserved its order.

The five officers suspended by the state government include Bengaluru City Police Commissioner B. Dayananda, Additional Commissioner (West) Vikas Kumar, DCP (Central Division) H.T. Shekhar, ACP Balakrishna, and Kabban Park Inspector Girish A.K.

The government’s move to suspend the officers on the night of June 5 had sparked debate, with many alleging that they were made scapegoats without a proper probe. The tribunal’s observations now raise fresh questions about accountability and procedural fairness in the handling of the tragedy.