The BJP’s Karnataka unit has intensified its offensive against the Congress-led state government in the wake of the tragic stampede during RCB’s victory celebrations that left 11 people dead. Leading the charge is State BJP President and MLA BY Vijayendra, who has squarely blamed Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy DK Shivakumar for the mishandling of the event and announced a massive protest in Bengaluru on June 13.
CM, DCM, and Home Minister are “prime accused”: Vijayendra
Addressing reporters in Shivamogga, Vijayendra launched a scathing attack on the Congress government, labeling it “anti-people” and accusing its top leadership of direct complicity in the stampede tragedy.
“In the Chinnaswamy Stadium incident, the Chief Minister is accused number one. Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar is accused number two. Home Minister G. Parameshwara, who sat with his hands tied as the crisis unfolded, is accused number three,” Vijayendra charged.
He further alleged that other entities like RCB management, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), and DNA Networks, the event management firm, are also responsible. “RCB is not the only one to blame. The real accountability lies with the state leadership that prioritized optics over safety,” he said. He further opined that, “Only an impartial probe by sitting judges can bring justice”
Vijayendra rejected the state government’s decision to hand over the investigation to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and a panel of retired High Court judges, calling it a “blatant attempt to shield political heads and scapegoat lower officials.”
“If the government has even a shred of moral responsibility, it should hand over the investigation to sitting High Court judges. Appointing handpicked retired judges is a deliberate move to secure a clean chit,” Vijayendra said.
He emphasized that BJP had from the beginning demanded a probe led by sitting High Court judges. “We will not remain silent until justice is delivered to the victims,” he declared.
Mass protest on June 13 at Freedom Park
Vijayendra announced that the BJP would launch a statewide agitation, starting with a protest in Freedom Park, Bengaluru, on June 13. He said that 15,000 to 20,000 people — including BJP workers, victim families, and the general public — are expected to participate.
“This protest will be the beginning of a larger movement to oust this anti-people government. The Congress leadership has lost its credibility,” he stated.
CM vs DCM: Who orchestrated the chaos?
Vijayendra also highlighted the internal power struggle between Siddaramaiah and DK Shivakumar. “The entire tragedy was the result of a CM vs DCM popularity contest. The Chief Minister organized an event at the Vidhana Soudha. The Deputy CM hosted one at Chinnaswamy Stadium. And in that confusion, the public paid the price,” he said.
He added that the government must clarify its position. “The Chief Minister must state whether there is a functioning relationship between him and his deputy. If not, who’s accountable for the state’s law and order?” he questioned.
“Even the Governor was dragged into this drama”
Vijayendra also raised concerns about the misuse of constitutional offices for political optics. “They even dragged the Governor into this mess for a photo-op. We never demanded a celebration at the Vidhana Soudha. We only sought permission for a peaceful march. Had we been allowed, this tragedy might have been averted,” he claimed.
He criticized the government for failing to manage law and order, especially in the heart of the capital. “RCB fans threw stones and slippers in front of the Vidhana Soudha. The chaos damaged the state’s image globally. And all for a few selfies and political clout,” he remarked.
“State government is shameless and unaccountable”
The BJP state president said he had penned an open letter to CM Siddaramaiah to convey the anguish and frustration of the people and the families of those who lost their lives.
“I don’t expect any response. This government is thick-skinned and tone-deaf. But we will ensure that the people of this state know who’s responsible. This fight will not stop with a protest — it will go on until this government is held accountable,” Vijayendra vowed.
