Chaos at Chinnaswamy stadium: RCB Celebration turns tragic amid stampede

Bengaluru: What began as a jubilant celebration for Royal Challengers Bangalore’s maiden IPL title quickly turned into chaos as a stampede broke out at the packed M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on evening. Thousands of fans had gathered to witness their heroes take a victory lap, but severe overcrowding and poor crowd control led to panic, leaving several injured and at least three lives tragically lost. Eyewitnesses described the scene as “utter mayhem,” with many people fainting or getting trampled in the rush near the entry gates and barriers.

CM Siddaramaiah announces ₹10 lakh ex-gratia to the kin of victims, govt. to provide free treatment to injured. At least 11 dead, more than 30 injured after the stampede outside Chinnaswamy Stadium; RCB, Karnataka State Cricket Association condole deaths.

Criticism has mounted against the Karnataka government and city authorities for gross mismanagement of the event. Despite knowing the turnout would be massive after RCB’s historic win, arrangements fell short in ensuring safety. Questions are being raised about the lack of proper barricading, emergency medical support, and police deployment. As grieving families await justice, the incident has cast a dark shadow over what was supposed to be a historic moment of joy for Bengaluru.