What was intended to be a jubilant celebration turned into a deadly tragedy in Bengaluru, as a stampede during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) victory parade claimed the lives of 11 fans and left dozens injured.
Following the incident at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, the Bengaluru Police have filed a First Information Report (FIR) against the RCB franchise, its event management partners DNA Entertainment, and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA). The charges stem from their decision to proceed with the event despite police denial of permission, and alleged failure to implement crowd control measures.
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FIR Filed After Fatal Stampede Mars Celebratory Parade
The Bengaluru Police registered an FIR naming RCB, DNA Entertainment, and the KSCA as primary accused. This action follows a complaint filed by Cubbon Park Division Inspector Girish AK, who cited multiple violations under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including:
- Section 105 – Culpable homicide not amounting to murder
- Section 115 – Voluntarily causing harm
- Section 118 – Grievous hurt by dangerous means
- Section 125 – Acts endangering life or safety
- Section 132 – Assault to deter public servants from duty
- Section 190 – Unlawful assembly
A copy of the FIR accessed by ESPNcricinfo details how the Bengaluru Police had explicitly denied permission for any public gathering or event at the stadium on June 5, citing difficulties in managing a second massive crowd following the IPL win celebrations on June 4.
Police Denial Ignored, Celebrations Went Ahead
“Despite this, KSCA, RCB, and DNA went ahead with their plans and ignored the police’s instructions,” the FIR reads. The police assert that RCB, without formal approval, publicly announced the celebration via social media and their official website, encouraging supporters to attend. This led to widespread media coverage, prompting thousands of fans to flock to the stadium area.
“On June 4, the RCB team arrived at Vidhan Soudha for the felicitation ceremony, which went smoothly despite a huge crowd,” the FIR added. “Around 5:30 pm, the victory parade began towards Chinnaswamy Stadium. Police provided security at the stadium, but KSCA, RCB, and DNA failed to plan how the crowd would be allowed in.”
Lack of Planning and Communication Led to Stampede
According to the FIR, chaos erupted when the gates of the stadium were opened at 3:10 pm to allow entry. The stadium’s limited capacity—around 30,000 to 35,000—was no match for the lakhs of fans that had gathered outside. The sudden surge resulted in a stampede, injuring dozens and killing 11.
“RCB did not inform the police or public about how passes would be distributed,” police noted. “This caused confusion among the lakhs of fans waiting outside, which led to overcrowding and the stampede.”
Police officers present on site, along with VIP security, reportedly struggled to rescue the injured and manage the crowd, as panic spread quickly. Though the event itself began at 5:45 pm without further issues, the damage had already been done.
Government Crackdown and Investigation Ordered
Reacting strongly to the tragedy, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah held a press conference to announce strict measures. He directed the arrest of representatives from all parties named in the FIR and ordered the suspension of the inspector in charge of the Cubbon Park police station.
To probe the root causes of the tragedy, the government has constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT). This follows Siddaramaiah’s earlier directive for a magisterial inquiry, with a deadline of 15 days to file the report. New operating procedures for large public events are also under consideration to prevent future incidents of this nature.
Compensation and Aftermath
Both the Karnataka government and RCB have pledged INR 10 lakh compensation to each victim’s family. Medical costs for the injured, including police officers, will be fully covered. While the gesture has been acknowledged, public criticism over the planning failures remains intense.
RCB has been contacted for an official response but has yet to issue a public statement. The lack of transparency and communication from the franchise has only heightened public outrage, with many calling for accountability from all parties involved.
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FAQs
Why has an FIR been filed against RCB?
The FIR was filed due to RCB’s decision to proceed with the celebration despite police denial of permission, resulting in a deadly stampede.
How many people died in the Bengaluru stadium stampede?
A total of 11 individuals lost their lives, and 64 were injured, including police personnel.
Who else has been named in the FIR alongside RCB?
The FIR also names DNA Entertainment and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) as co-accused.
What action has the Karnataka government taken?
The state has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and suspended the local police inspector. Arrests of those responsible have also been ordered.
Has RCB commented on the incident?
As of now, RCB has not issued a public statement. They have, however, promised INR 10 lakh compensation to families of the deceased.
