CONTEXT

• Incident Trigger: On June 4, 2025, a stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru led to 11 deaths.
• Cause: Overcrowding and lack of prior police permission and crowd control measures during a mass event.
• Response: Karnataka government decided to bring a legal framework to prevent such tragedies.

CONCEPT – Karnataka Crowd Control (Managing Crowd at Events and Venues of Mass Gathering) Bill

• Purpose: Regulate and ensure public safety during mass gatherings and events.
• Key Provision: Mandatory police permission required before organizing any large event.
• Police Authority:
  • May approve, alter venue/timings, or cancel the event.
• Exemptions:
  • Not applicable to traditional religious gatherings (e.g., Jatra, Rathotsava, Pallakki Utsava, Teppada Teru, Urus).
• Offences under the Bill:
  • Not seeking prior police permission.
  • Disobedience leading to bodily harm, death, or stampede.
  • Conducting events irresponsibly causing public disturbance.
• Penalties:
  • Imprisonment up to 3 years.
  • Fine up to Rs 5 lakh.
  • Compensation to victims made mandatory.
• Legal Nature:
  • Non-cognizable and non-bailable offences.
  • Tried by a First-Class Magistrate.

CURRENT

• Bill Status: Draft placed before Karnataka Cabinet for consideration and approval.
• Significance:
  • A preventive step ensuring accountability of event organizers.
  • Protects public safety in mass gatherings.
• Social Impact: Promotes safe event management practices across Karnataka.
• Administrative Control: Strengthens role of police in public event regulation.
• Additional Update (Housing Quota):
  • Cabinet approved increase in minority quota in housing schemes from 10% to 15%.
  • Based on Sachar Committee Report (2006) and aligned with Union government norms.