Suspension of Bengaluru Police Chief now awaits ratification from Union government

The Karnataka government’s suspension of Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayanand following the stampede during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL victory celebration has triggered a major political storm. The incident has led to a sharp divide between the ruling Congress and opposition BJP, with both parties locked in a battle over accountability and due process.

Also read: Seemanth Kumar Singh appointed Bengaluru Police Commissioner after Dayananda’s suspension

The suspension, ordered by the Siddaramaiah-led Congress government, now awaits ratification from the Union government, a mandatory step within 30 days for any disciplinary action against an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. If the Centre withholds its ratification, the suspension will not take effect.

BJP leaders in Karnataka have condemned the move, accusing the state government of unfairly targeting senior officers to deflect blame. Meanwhile, several IPS officers have rallied in support of Dayanand and urged BJP leaders to push back against the suspension at the central level.

Former Bengaluru Police Commissioner and BJP leader Bhaskar Rao has been particularly vocal, calling the state’s decision hasty and demoralizing. He also indicated that he would appeal to his party to seek a revocation of the order.

The fallout has deeply impacted the morale of the police force, with internal sources suggesting that many officers feel punished for their commitment during the high-pressure IPL event. As the political tug-of-war continues, the final decision rests with the Union Home Ministry in the coming weeks.