The Karnataka government has introduced a new law, the Karnataka Crowd Control Bill, 2025, following the stampede in Bengaluru on June 4.
The proposed legislation, brought up for discussion in today’s cabinet meeting, seeks to manage large gatherings and avert similar incidents going forward. The proposed legislation suggests severe penalties, which may include a maximum of three years in prison and a fine of Rs 5,000 for infractions.
The draft aims to oversee and control crowds at “sponsored events and large gatherings” in Karnataka — including political rallies and conferences.
Bill exempts traditional and religious gatherings
The bill, however, excludes traditional and religious events including fairs, Rathotsava (chariot festivals), Pallakki Utsava (palanquin processions), boat festivals (Teppada Teru or Teppotsava), Urs (also referred to as Urus) occasions, and additional religious festivities.
According to the Karnataka Crowd Control Bill, individuals who disregard police directions or break the law may face imprisonment, a fine, or both as punishment. For commercial event organizers — such as those coordinating sports or circus performances — harsher penalties are imposed if they do not obtain police approval, cannot control the audience, fail to address any damages incurred, or break the law in any manner.
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In these situations, the penalty may include a maximum of three years in prison, a fine reaching Rs 5 lakh, or both. If an event results in death or injury due to absent permissions or the organiser’s negligence, it is classified as a crime. All violations of this law are non-cognizable, non-bailable and will be addressed by a magistrate of the first class.
The draft bill defines “Event Planners” as individuals or groups that organize mass gatherings, as specified by the government, while “Crowd” refers to a large and often unruly assembly at designated events such as political rallies or conferences.
The bill is anticipated to receive approval at the upcoming cabinet meeting.
