Bengaluru: A joyous celebration turned tragic outside Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday evening as a stampede claimed at least 10 lives and left over 50 people injured during festivities honoring Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for their maiden IPL 2025 title win. The chaotic scene unfolded as thousands of enthusiastic fans gathered to catch a glimpse of their champion team following RCB’s victory over Punjab Kings in the IPL final on Tuesday.
The incident occurred near Gate No. 3 of the stadium, where a massive crowd had assembled for a felicitation ceremony organized by the Karnataka State Government and the Karnataka Cricket Association. Reports indicate that overcrowding and a lack of adequate crowd control measures led to a stampede-like situation, with fans surging forward, some even attempting to climb gates and fences. Six deaths were confirmed at Bowring Hospital in Shivajinagar, while four others were reported at Vaidehi Hospital on Mallya Road, with the toll expected to rise. Among the injured, several remain in critical condition, receiving treatment in intensive care units.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, addressing the media, described the crowd as “uncontrollable” and noted that over 5,000 police personnel had been deployed. “I can’t confirm the numbers yet. I’m heading to the stadium now. A lot of emotional fans were there,” he told India Today TV. However, the tragedy has sparked outrage, with the Karnataka BJP accusing the Congress-led state government of criminal negligence. “Innocent lives lost due to the irresponsibility of the Congress govt. No crowd control measures. Just chaos,” the party posted on X.
Visuals on social media showed police using mild force to manage the swelling crowd, with ambulances struggling to navigate overcrowded roads to transport the injured. The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation suspended services at nearby stations to curb the chaos. As investigations continue, the incident has cast a somber shadow over RCB’s historic triumph after an 18-year wait. (EOM)
