Ex-KSCA officials questioned over Chinnaswamy Stadium stampede

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru

Former Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) secretary Shankar and treasurer Jayaram appeared for questioning before District Magistrate Jagadeesh on Saturday in connection with the stampede near the Chinnaswamy Stadium during the RCB’s IPL victory celebrations that killed 11 people. Shankar and Jayaram, who arrived at the office of the Deputy Commissioner and Magistrate Jagadeesh near Mysore Bank Circle around 3 pm, were questioned until 5:30 pm.

Sources indicate that they faced over 30 questions, including enquiries about whether police permission was sought for the RCB victory celebration, if permission was denied, and who announced the availability of free passes. In their response, Shankar and Jayaram reportedly stated that they had requested police security for the RCB victory celebration from the Cubbon Park police station a day prior. However, the station officers had denied permission, citing various reasons. Despite the denial, they felt compelled to organise the event after RCB's long- awaited victory.

They then again requested security, which the police did provide. However, they suggested that the incident likely occurred due to an unexpectedly large crowd of fans. Sources stated that the duo gave a conflicting statement, claiming they had no information about the free passes. Meanwhile, Sunil Matthew, Kiran Kumar, and Sumanth from the DNA Management also appeared for questioning on Saturday. Sources confirmed that statements from over 30 individuals have been recorded in connection with the case on Saturday as well.