The Karnataka government has referred the Karnataka Crowd Control (Managing Crowd at Events and Places of Gathering) Bill, 2025 to a House Committee for further scrutiny, following heated debate in the Assembly on Thursday.
The bill was introduced a day earlier in response to the tragic stampede during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s maiden IPL title celebration, which claimed 11 lives. The Bill seeks to clearly define accountability in case of such disasters and regulate permissions for large gatherings.
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According to the draft, permissions for events will depend on expected turnout: local police for crowds under 7,000, deputy superintendents or assistant commissioners for gatherings between 7,000 and 50,000, and district superintendents or commissioners for events above 50,000. Organisers found responsible for fatalities could face a minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment, extendable to life, while injuries could attract three to seven years in jail.
Bill is a reactionary move
Opposition leaders questioned the timing and scope of the Bill. Several BJP members described it as a reactionary move following the stampede, while others warned it could curb democratic protests and public movements. Concerns were also raised about the feasibility of estimating numbers for rallies or farmer demonstrations.
The government clarified that exemptions will apply to fairs, mass marriages, government functions, and private events held within defined boundaries. However, demands to exclude political events were rejected.
With the referral to the House Committee, detailed deliberations are expected before the Bill is brought back for passage.