Bengaluru, June 5:
Three people, including a 13-year-old girl, lost their lives in a tragic stampede that occurred during a government-linked ration distribution drive in the Anekal area of Bengaluru on Wednesday. The incident has triggered widespread criticism over poor crowd management and administrative negligence.
The deceased have been identified as Sahana (13), Sumathi (35), and Lakshmamma (40). All three victims were among the thousands who had gathered early in the morning to collect free ration kits being distributed at the event, reportedly organized by a local Congress leader. Eyewitnesses stated that the crowd swelled uncontrollably, leading to panic and a stampede-like situation.
According to local reports, the venue lacked proper barricading, designated entry-exit points, and on-ground crowd control personnel. Several people fell and were trampled as the crowd surged forward. “People were pushing from all sides. There was no space to move or breathe,” said a local resident who was present at the spot.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed deep grief over the incident and assured that the state government would conduct a thorough investigation. “This is an unfortunate and painful tragedy. Strict action will be taken against those responsible for the lapses,” he said. The Chief Minister also announced an ex-gratia of ₹5 lakh each to the families of the deceased.
The incident has sparked political tension, with the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) blaming the Congress government for negligence. Senior BJP leaders alleged that the ration drive was politically motivated and organized without proper safety arrangements. “Lives were lost because of administrative failure and political opportunism,” said BJP MLA R. Ashoka.
Meanwhile, safety experts have raised concerns over the increasing number of such incidents at public welfare events. “Organizers often underestimate crowd turnout and fail to implement standard safety protocols,” said public safety expert Dr. P. Shankar.
The police have launched an investigation to determine accountability. Initial findings suggest that the event lacked official permission and did not involve coordination with local authorities. A case has been registered, and further legal action is expected against the event organizers.
As the city mourns the deaths of three innocent lives, questions are being raised about how such events are being conducted without adequate preparation. The tragic incident serves as a wake-up call for stricter enforcement of crowd management protocols in public welfare programs.
