Karnataka Government Clears Three IPS Officers in Chinnaswamy Stadium Stampede Case

The Karnataka government has officially cleared three senior IPS officers in the departmental inquiry linked to the Chinnaswamy Stadium stampede in Bengaluru. The decision brings an end to disciplinary proceedings against the officers after authorities concluded that there was insufficient evidence to continue the case.

The inquiry was initiated against former Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda, Additional Commissioner of Police West Vikas Kumar Vikas, and Central Division DCP Shekhar H Tekkanavar following the tragic crowd crush that occurred during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL victory celebrations on June 4, 2025.

A day after the incident, the three officers were suspended over allegations of security lapses. Although their suspensions were later revoked, the departmental investigation continued under the All India Services Discipline and Appeal Rules 1969.

After reviewing the officers’ written explanations and examining the recommendations of the administrative department, the competent authority determined that there was no material to justify further disciplinary action. Based on these findings, the Karnataka government ordered the closure of the inquiry and formally cleared all three officers of the allegations.

While granting relief to Shekhar H Tekkanavar, the government also issued a caution, advising him to exercise greater responsibility in the future to help prevent similar incidents.

The stampede remains one of Bengaluru’s worst public tragedies in recent years. Around 2.5 lakh fans had gathered near the stadium to celebrate RCB’s maiden IPL title victory, leading to severe overcrowding. The incident claimed 11 lives and left more than 56 people injured after crowd control measures failed. With the latest government order, the departmental proceedings against the three IPS officers have now officially concluded.