Bengaluru: DNA Entertainment Network has filed a writ petition before the Karnataka High Court challenging the validity of the inquiry commission report submitted by Justice Michael Cunha in connection with the stampede incident that occurred near the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) victory celebrations.
The petition alleges that the findings of Justice Cunha’s report are unilateral and prejudicial, claiming that the document severely harms the petitioner’s reputation. DNA Entertainment has argued that the report was leaked intentionally prior to its formal release, implying a premeditated attempt to malign the organisers involved.
The petition further contends that such a leak undermines the principles of natural justice and renders the report legally untenable. Consequently, DNA Entertainment has sought the quashing of the commission’s findings, asserting that the report lacks neutrality and procedural fairness.
The Justice Cunha-led commission was constituted to investigate the circumstances that led to the fatal stampede, which resulted in multiple casualties during the IPL celebration event in Bengaluru. The report had pointed to lapses in planning, coordination, and crowd control, reportedly implicating private organisers and public authorities.
This legal challenge now adds a new dimension to the case, with the High Court expected to examine whether the commission overstepped its mandate or breached procedural fairness.
