There is need for fairness in accountability: The matter of police chief's suspension in Bengaluru stampede

The police commissioner did not grant permission for the route march or victory lap. Under the law, the absence of explicit permission itself means no permission was granted. Yet, the government proceeded with the event.

- DR VISHAL RAO

The stampede following the felicitation of the victorious Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) cricket team has left Karnataka in mourning, in what has been a tragic turn of events. The loss of innocent lives is heart-wrenching, and the public outcry for accountability is totally justified.

However, in the aftermath of this tragedy, the suspension of the Commissioner of Police (COP) has raised serious concerns about fairness, due process, and the potential scapegoating of a senior officer for systemic failures.

The unfortunate incident unfolded as a seamless series of events: an official felicitation at Vidhana Soudha, attended by the Chief Minister's family, ministers, and other dignitaries, followed by a victory lap around the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The public, cricket-crazy and eager to celebrate RCB's IPL win following an 18-year wait, gathered in unprecedented numbers, leading to chaos and the tragic stampede.

While the government's intent to honour RCB's victory was understandable, the lack of foresight and coordination in managing the event is glaring.