The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) has revoked the suspension order of IPS officer Vikash Kumar Vikash, who was suspended following the Chinnaswamy Stadium stampede that resulted in 11 fatalities and numerous injuries. The CAT's decision has been viewed as a setback for the Karnataka government, which had ordered the suspensions.

The tragic incident occurred on June 4 during celebrations of Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) IPL victory. Thousands of fans gathered to participate in the celebrations at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, and a stampede ensued as crowds surged out of control.

In the aftermath, the state government initiated a probe and suspended several officers, including the then Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayananda and Additional Commissioner of Police (East Division) Vikash Kumar. The government's action faced criticism, with allegations that the officers were made scapegoats.

Vikash Kumar challenged his suspension before the CAT, arguing that the order lacked clarity regarding his individual role in the tragedy and did not establish willful negligence. His counsel, Dhyan Chinappa, contended that the suspension was arbitrary and that his client was entitled to full service benefits. The CAT bench, comprising Justice B. K. Srivatsava and Santosh Mehra, set aside the suspension, reinstating Kumar and restoring his service entitlements. The tribunal also directed the government to review the suspensions of two other IPS officers, B. Dayananda and Shekhar, stating that the decisions must be re-evaluated. Sources indicate that these officers are hopeful that their suspensions will also be revoked.

The CAT observed that RCB had announced celebrations without police permission, which did not allow the police sufficient time to prepare. The tribunal further stated that "Police personnel are also human beings. They are neither God nor magician. They do not have magic powers like Aladdin's lamp that can fulfil any wish".

DCP MN Karibasvanna had reportedly sent a letter to the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (DPAR) on the same day, highlighting severe security concerns. Despite the police reportedly advising against holding the celebrations on June 4 and suggesting a delay until June 8, the event proceeded.

The final of the IPL tournament was scheduled in Ahmedabad on June 3, and RCB won the match. "M/s. DNA Entertainment Network Private Limited", the event management firm for RCB, organized a potential victory parade around the M Chinnaswamy Stadium and a celebration at the stadium, scheduled for June 4.

The CAT's order also directed the government to consider Vikash Kumar's suspension period as official duty. While the CAT has granted relief to Vikash Kumar, legal sources suggest that similar relief may be granted to the other suspended officers soon. However, sources also indicate that the Karnataka government may challenge the CAT ruling in the High Court.