Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara has supported the government’s choice to not permit the Vijay Hazare Trophy cricket match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Parameshwara mentioned that the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) president and former Indian cricketer Venkatesh Prasad had discussions with him and the Chief Minister. He explained that the decision was influenced by the lack of action on the recommendations made by the Justice Michael D’Cunha Commission to the KSCA.
The Minister highlighted that despite 17 recommendations given to the KSCA, no progress had been made, leading to the denial of permission for the match. The Karnataka Police, after an inspection by various authorities, including the Bengaluru Police Commissioner, raised concerns over safety and crowd control issues at the stadium. The decision was made based on critical gaps identified in the venue’s infrastructure and emergency readiness.
Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh clarified that the denial of permission was due to inadequate stadium facilities, as reported by officials from different departments. The stadium gates were deemed insufficient to manage large crowds, especially with the potential presence of Virat Kohli. This decision follows a tragic incident in the past where 11 individuals lost their lives in a stampede near the same stadium during a previous event.
