6 cops suspended over gelatin sticks recovery near PM Modi’s route on Bengaluru visit
Suspensions ordered pending enquiry into suspected security lapse on May 10; BJP state president BY Vijayendra criticised the ruling Congress govt, calling it a ‘grave failure’
Six policemen have been suspended on charges of dereliction of duty following the recovery of gelatin sticks near the route of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Art of Living Centre on the outskirts of Bengaluru city earlier this month on May 10, officials said on Sunday (May 24).
Bengaluru South district Superintendent of Police R Srinivas Gowda suspended a sub-inspector, an assistant sub-inspector, and four constables. The suspensions were ordered pending completion of an enquiry into the incident, which has raised concerns over a possible security lapse during the Prime Minister’s May 10 visit.
During an inspection, a police constable spotted gelatin sticks with a circuit and a timer.
Deputy Inspector General of Police (Central Range), Bengaluru, said two gelatin sticks were found lying near a footpath on the outskirts of Bengaluru, around three kms away from the main venue where Modi was scheduled to attend an event.
“Before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival, during the checking, two gelatin sticks were found on the side of the footpath, nearly 3 kms away from the main venue where PM Modi was scheduled to arrive. Further investigation is underway,” the DIG said.
Probe launched into security arrangements
Officials said the suspended policemen will remain under suspension until the enquiry is completed. Investigators are examining how the explosive material reached the area and whether there was any deliberate attempt to compromise security arrangements.
Also Read: Explosives found along PM Modi’s route in Bengaluru; NIA launches probe
The gelatin sticks were reportedly recovered near an ashram close to Kagalipura on the outskirts of Bengaluru. Following the discovery, security agencies immediately cordoned off the area, while bomb disposal and forensic teams were deployed for examination.
Police subsequently launched a detailed investigation into the source of the explosives and possible lapses in security protocols ahead of the high-profile visit. The National Investigation Agency have also joined the probe.
BJP attacks Congress govt
The incident also triggered a political row in Karnataka, with state BJP president BY Vijayendra criticising the ruling Congress government over the alleged lapse.
In a post on X on May 10, Vijayendra had described the recovery of gelatin sticks near the Prime Minister’s route as an “unpardonable and grave failure”.
Also Read: Modi's Bengaluru visit: Traffic curbs ahead of Metro Yellow Line inauguration
Alleging that law and order had “completely collapsed” in Karnataka under the Congress government, he demanded strict action against those responsible as well as officials found negligent in ensuring the Prime Minister’s security.
(With agency inputs)