RCB’s historic IPL win sparked tragic stampede-like conditions outside Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.
Eleven fans died, and dozens were injured amid chaos. Local authorities have launched a magisterial inquiry.
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Chaos Unfolds
Crowds began gathering before RCB’s team arrived on Wednesday afternoon.
Thousands thronged the stadium gates to celebrate RCB’s first IPL title. With limited entry points and roughly 200,000 fans in the vicinity, stampede-like conditions erupted when supporters attempted to force open narrow gates.
At least eleven people lost their lives, and many more were rushed to nearby hospitals.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed deep shock and ordered a 15-day magisterial probe into the mishandling.
“I don’t want to defend this incident,” he said. “Stadium capacity is 35,000, yet two to three lakh people showed up.
Gates were broken, and a stampede occurred. This pain overshadowed the joy of victory.”
Emergency Response
Within minutes of the crush, police and paramedics struggled to reach victims.
Reports indicate fans suffered dehydration, skull fractures, and other injuries.
At least four unconscious fans were brought from the Cubbon Park Metro Station. Bowring Hospital and Lady Curzon Hospital treated multiple trauma cases.
RCB stated in the evening: “These unfortunate incidents deeply anguish us.
Safety of fans is paramount. Upon learning of the situation, we amended our program and followed local authorities’ guidance.
Our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased.”
Official Reactions
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia called the tragedy “a negative side of popularity” and stressed that organizers should have planned better.
“People are crazy for their cricketers. Proper safety measures were lacking. My condolences to the families,” he said.
RCB captain Virat Kohli had anticipated a massive welcome but was unaware of the unfolding crisis. “We expected celebrations, but not this scale. We mourn the loss of lives,” Kohli said via video message from the team hotel.
Crowd Control Breakdown
Contradictory announcements between RCB and Bengaluru Traffic Police added to the confusion.
RCB publicized a parade, while police initially denied any public procession.
Entry guidelines changed repeatedly, with metro services suspended near the stadium to deter additional crowds.
These mixed messages hindered crowd control.
Authorities also deployed extra police personnel, issued mobile jammers, and attempted mild lathi charges to disperse fans scaling boundary walls along Cubbon Road.
Despite efforts, fans continued to surge toward the stadium.
Inquiry and Next Steps
Siddaramaiah’s magisterial inquiry will investigate planning lapses, gate security, and coordination between RCB, local authorities, and police.
Preliminary findings must be submitted in two weeks. RCB management has pledged to cooperate fully.
Until investigations conclude, RCB will suspend all public celebrations.
Fans are urged to refrain from gathering near Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Also Read: Eleven die in India crush as fans gather for IPL victory parade
