Karnataka state authorities have placed blame on the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) cricket team and its associates for last month’s tragic stampede in Bengaluru that left eleven fans dead and more than fifty others injured during celebrations for the team’s maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title.
The fatal incident occurred on June 4, near the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, as hundreds of thousands of jubilant fans thronged the streets to celebrate RCB’s title triumph and to catch a glimpse of their hero, Virat Kohli. The celebrations, however, turned deadly as the crowd overwhelmed the available space, resulting in a stampede that claimed young lives aged between 14 and 29.
A report released by Karnataka state authorities on Thursday pointed directly to mismanagement by RCB, their event partners DNA, and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA). The findings revealed that organisers failed to submit a formal application or provide adequate details necessary to receive official permission for the parade.
“Consequently, the permission was not granted,” the report stated. Despite police denying their request, RCB went ahead with the victory procession, according to the investigation.
In the aftermath of the disaster, four individuals were taken into custody, including a senior executive from RCB, and representatives from DNA and the KSCA.
The parade took place just a day after RCB clinched their historic first IPL title with a win over Punjab Kings in the final held in Ahmedabad. The celebration near the stadium, initially meant to be a moment of triumph, turned into one of mourning and outrage.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, calling the tragedy “absolutely heartrending.” RCB talisman Virat Kohli, who top-scored in the final, said he was “at a loss for words” following the events.
India head coach Gautam Gambhir also criticised the handling of the event, stating he had “never been a fan of roadshows,” and that such celebrations should not proceed if the authorities are not equipped to manage the crowds.
Efforts by AFP to reach RCB for comment have so far been unsuccessful.
The incident has raised serious questions about public safety and accountability, especially in high-profile celebrations involving large crowds and sporting heroes.