After Bengaluru Stampede Scare, Karnataka Proposes Strict Law: Event Managers May Face Jail, ₹5 Lakh Fine

Following the recent stampede-like situation in Bengaluru during a food distribution event, the Karnataka government has proposed a draft law that could impose strict penalties on event organisers for safety lapses. The proposed legislation includes jail time and hefty fines, signalling a strong shift towards accountability. This move has caught the attention of event planners and citizens across the state, especially in growing Tier 2 cities where public gatherings are on the rise.

What the Draft Law Suggests
The new proposal aims to make it mandatory for organisers of public events to obtain prior approval from local authorities and follow detailed safety protocols. If found negligent, event managers could face up to three years in jail and a fine of up to ₹5 lakh.

Why the Law Was Triggered
The draft law comes in response to the chaotic scenes at a recent food kit distribution event in Bengaluru where poor crowd control led to a near-stampede. Several people were injured, and the incident highlighted a lack of planning and crowd management. This has prompted state officials to take preventive action to avoid such situations in the future.

Focus on Public Safety and Responsibility
Authorities stress that the law is not to restrict events but to ensure public safety. Organisers will be required to provide detailed crowd management plans, emergency exits, security arrangements, and coordination with the police, especially for events expecting large turnouts.

Tier 2 Cities May Face Stricter Implementation
Cities like Hubballi, Mysuru, Davanagere, and Mangaluru, which are witnessing a rise in political rallies, cultural events, and religious gatherings, may see the most significant changes. Local organisers in these cities will need to be more proactive in following safety guidelines to avoid legal consequences.

Mixed Reactions from Organisers
While some event planners welcome the move as a much-needed step for public safety, others worry about bureaucratic hurdles and increased costs. There is also concern that smaller, community-led events could face difficulties navigating the new approval process.

Government’s Assurance
The Karnataka government has assured that the law will include clear guidelines to avoid confusion and allow smooth event planning. Training sessions and awareness programs for event managers are also being considered to help adapt to the new regulations.

Conclusion:
The proposed law in Karnataka marks a firm move toward accountability in public event management. For Tier 2 cities with growing populations and increasing social gatherings, this could be a turning point in how events are planned and executed. While it may bring challenges for organisers, the primary goal remains clear—public safety must come first.