Karnataka Tables Tough Crowd Control Bill

In a decisive move to prevent tragedies like the June 4, 2025, Chinnaswamy Stadium stampede that claimed 11 lives and injured dozens, the Karnataka government introduced the Karnataka Crowd Control (Managing Crowd at Events and Places of Gathering) Bill in the state Assembly on Wednesday, August 20, 2025. Tabled in Bengaluru, the legislation aims to regulate mass gatherings and impose strict penalties for violations, ensuring public safety at events across the state.

The bill mandates that organizers of events attracting crowds must secure permission from jurisdictional authorities. For gatherings under 7,000, the local police station’s officer-in-charge can grant approval after due inquiry. For crowds between 7,000 and 50,000, the Deputy Superintendent of Police holds authority, while events exceeding 50,000 require permission from the Superintendent of Police or Commissioner of Police. This tiered system aims to streamline crowd management and ensure accountability.

Violations carry severe consequences. Organizing unpermitted events could lead to 3 to 7 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to ₹1 crore, or both. Creating disturbances, such as spreading rumors or inciting violence at events, may result in up to 3 years in jail, a ₹50,000 fine, or both. In cases of “crowd disasters” causing injuries, perpetrators face 3 to 7 years in prison, while fatalities could lead to 10 years to life imprisonment. Disobeying police orders to disperse incurs a ₹50,000 fine and one month of community service.

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The bill’s introduction follows public outcry over the Chinnaswamy tragedy, where inadequate crowd control led to chaos during a high-profile event. Home Minister G. Parameshwara emphasized the need for robust regulations, stating, “This law will deter negligence and ensure organizers prioritize safety.” Once passed, offenses under the Act will be cognizable, non-bailable, and triable by a Judicial Magistrate First Class, signaling a zero-tolerance approach.

Local resident Priya S., who lost a relative in the stampede, welcomed the move, saying, “This bill is a step toward preventing such heart-wrenching losses.” However, some event organizers, like Ravi Kumar of Bengaluru Events Co., expressed concerns about bureaucratic delays in securing permissions, urging the government to ensure a balanced implementation.

As Karnataka braces for the 2026 Assembly elections, the bill underscores the government’s focus on public safety amid growing urban crowds. The Assembly is set to debate the legislation this week, with stakeholders watching closely for its impact on event planning and enforcement.

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