The Tribunal’s Intervention
The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) has formally served notice to Karnataka’s Congress government regarding the controversial suspension of IPS officer Vikash Kumar Vikash. This development comes days after a deadly stampede during RCB’s victory celebrations near Chinnaswamy Stadium claimed 11 lives and injured over 50 spectators.
The Suspended Officer’s Defense
Officer Vikash, who served as Additional Commissioner (West), has petitioned CAT claiming:
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Made a “scapegoat” for systemic failures
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Last-minute event approval created impossible security scenario
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Higher authorities equally responsible for crowd management
Government’s Stance
The state’s Advocate General has sought additional time to file objections, while the June 3 suspension order cites:
The state’s Advocate General has sought additional time to file objections, while the June 3 suspension order cites:
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Gross violation of All India Service Conduct Rules
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Failure to deploy adequate police force
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No consultation with senior officials about safety measures
Political Firestorm Erupts
Opposition parties allege:
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BJP: “Suspensions are damage control for government’s failure”
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JD(S): “Police being sacrificed to protect ministers”
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Congress counters: “Strict action shows zero tolerance”
Event Timeline Raises Questions
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June 3: RCB management requests permission for June 4 parade
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Commissioner’s office cites “insufficient time” but fails to issue written denial
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Spontaneous gathering of 50,000+ fans overwhelms security arrangements
Safety Audit Reveals Gaps
Preliminary findings show:
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No crowd control barriers installed
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Inadequate medical emergency preparedness
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VIP movement plans compromised general public safety
