Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has criticized the BJP for politicizing the recent stampede incident during the RCB victory celebration in Bengaluru, which claimed multiple lives. Speaking to the media in the city on Monday, the minister said that it was, in fact, the BJP that pressured the government to organize a victory parade for the cricketers on open promotional vehicles.

“Initially, the state government had decided against the use of promotional vehicles for the RCB team, but it was the BJP that insisted on such a celebration. When the government declined the request, BJP leaders criticized the decision through tweets,” Gundu Rao said.

He acknowledged the tragedy as deeply unfortunate and assured that the government is treating the incident with utmost seriousness. A retired judge-led committee has been formed to investigate the incident, and senior officials responsible for the lapses have already been suspended.

He condemned the BJP’s protests, stating, “Protesting now with political motives is unacceptable. This is a tragedy that should not have happened, but instead of constructive action, the BJP is trying to derive political mileage.”

Referring to similar tragedies, the minister pointed out that even during the Kumbh Mela stampede in Uttar Pradesh—despite a court order—there was no transparent explanation, and the Yogi Adityanath-led government was reprimanded by the court regarding compensation delays.

“The unexpected crowd surge was due to the players arriving in a hurry the next day after the match, making crowd estimation difficult,” he added, defending the government’s preparedness.

Reaffirming that the investigation will not be suppressed, the minister said those found responsible will face appropriate action following the inquiry’s findings.

Responding to questions about the stability of the Congress-JD(S) alliance, Gundu Rao stated, “Only the people have the right to change a government. The JD(S) is surviving on BJP’s oxygen, so H.D. Kumaraswamy has no moral right to criticize us. Our government will continue to deliver good governance for the rest of its term.”