Tribunal Overturns Suspension of IPS Officer Vikash Kumar Vikash Amid Stampede Controversy

The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) has annulled the Karnataka government's suspension of senior IPS officer Vikash Kumar Vikash. This decision comes after Vikash challenged the order passed following a fatal stampede at M Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, which resulted in 11 casualties amid criticism of poor planning and crowd management.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah responded by indicating the possibility of appealing the CAT's order. The tribunal's decision also opens the door for potential reinstatement of other suspended officers. The tribunal criticized the suspension order as being devoid of convincing materials, highlighting that such actions affect not only those suspended but also demoralize police morale.

BJP leader R Ashoka termed the CAT decision a 'slap' on the government's face, asserting the Congress-led administration attempted scapegoating to mask its mismanagement. As suspensions are reviewed, the opposition claims the responsibility for the tragedy lies with government mismanagement rather than police action.

(With inputs from agencies.)