RCB victory parade: 11 dead in stampede outside Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium

Bengaluru: What was meant to be a jubilant celebration turned into a tragic incident on Wednesday as a stampede-like situation outside Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium left 11 people dead, including one woman, and several others injured. The chaos unfolded as lakhs of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans gathered to welcome and celebrate their team’s maiden IPL title win.

The incident occurred ahead of a felicitation ceremony organised by the Karnataka government, where RCB players were to be honoured for their historic victory. Eyewitnesses reported that the massive crowd, many of whom had gathered hours in advance, surged toward the stadium gates, leading to people being crushed and trampled in the commotion.

According to preliminary information provided to the government, a temporary slab placed over a drain near the stadium premises collapsed under the weight of people standing on it, said sources. The sudden collapse caused panic and a stampede ensued, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries.

Karnataka government to provide Rs 10 lakh compensation to kin of deceased.

Despite the stadium already being packed to capacity, thousands more continued to wait outside. The situation worsened with heavy rain lashing the area and vehicular traffic coming to a standstill. Bengaluru Metro services were also temporarily suspended as a precaution.

Emergency response teams rushed to the site, but despite their swift efforts, three individuals succumbed to their injuries. Several others were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment. Authorities have yet to disclose the identities of the deceased.

Victory parade cancelled amid safety concerns

Originally, the Karnataka government had planned a grand victory parade for RCB, starting from Vidhana Soudha at 3:30 pm and culminating in a celebration at Chinnaswamy Stadium by 5 pm. However, following the crowd incident and growing safety concerns, Bengaluru Police denied permission for the parade.

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar welcomed the team at the airport earlier in the day. The players were then escorted directly to the stadium, where a scaled-down felicitation ceremony took place behind closed doors.

Concerns over crowd management

This tragic incident has raised serious concerns about the adequacy of crowd control and event preparedness in the city.

Bengaluru, known for its fervent cricket fanbase, has seen similar crowd issues in the past, including chaotic scenes during IPL ticket sales, due to inadequate arrangements and poor planning.

Calls are now growing louder for stricter crowd management protocols and improved coordination among civic, transport and security agencies, especially during high-profile public events.

Speaking to the media, DK Shivakumar said, "We are very proud of RCB and Karnataka. 18 years, a long struggle. I think this is not a controllable crowd. I apologise to all the people of Bengaluru and Karnataka, we wanted to take a parade from Vidhana Soudha, but the crowd is uncontrollable. I have no information on deaths in RCB celebrations, will inform on receiving details."

IPL chairman reacts

Reacting on the incident, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal said, "We spoke to the management when we got to know about the situation and they assured that they will finish the ceremony quickly. This is definitely sad and tragic. RCB officials assured me that they will wind up the celebrations now - Officials inside weren't aware about what happened outside. They assured me they will wrap it up inside. It is very sad and tragic. Heartfelt condolences".

RCB statement

In a statement, RCB said : We are deeply anguished by the unfortunate incidents that have come to light through media reports regarding public gatherings all over Bengaluru in anticipation of the team’s arrival this afternoon. The safety and well-being of everyone is of utmost importance to us. RCB mourns the tragic loss of lives and extend our heartfelt condolences to the affected families.Immediately upon being made aware of the situation, we promptly amended our program, and followed, the guidance and advice of the local administration.

We urge all our supporters to please stay safe.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep condolences over the deaths during a stampede. "The mishap in Bengaluru is absolutely heartrending. In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that those who are injured have a speedy recovery," Modi wrote on X.