Bengaluru, June 5, 2025 — What was meant to be a day of celebration turned into a horrific tragedy in Bengaluru, as 11 people lost their lives and over 47 others were injured in a stampede outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) IPL 2025 victory parade. The incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon when lakhs of fans gathered near the stadium to catch a glimpse of their cricketing heroes, including Virat Kohli.
Chaos Unleashed: Small Gate, Massive Crowd
The tragedy unfolded at Gate No. 7 of the stadium near Cubbon Park when thousands attempted to force their way in through a small entrance. The stadium has a capacity of only 35,000, but an estimated 2–3 lakh people had swarmed the area.
According to eyewitness accounts, the crowd surged dangerously, resulting in people being crushed underfoot. Shoes, belongings, and torn clothes were left scattered in the aftermath. Fans described suffocating conditions, with some collapsing and others receiving CPR from fellow attendees. One man reportedly fractured his leg after falling while trying to climb over the stadium wall.
Victims and Medical Emergency
Among the deceased were a woman and a Class 9 student. Hospitals including Bowring Hospital and Vydehi Multispecialty Hospital were overwhelmed. Doctors reported a chaotic scene with dozens of injured arriving at once, many in critical condition. Victims were transported not only in ambulances but also in police and private vehicles due to severe traffic congestion.
Meanwhile, RCB fans fainted at Vidhana Soudha, where the team was being felicitated by the Karnataka government. The felicitation ceremony was cut short due to both the tragedy and unexpected rain.
Official Reaction and Inquiry
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah termed the incident a “major tragedy” and announced a compensation of ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased and free treatment for all injured.
“I don’t want to defend this incident. I’ve ordered a magisterial inquiry with a 15-day deadline,” the CM said, acknowledging the poor crowd management and inadequate planning. Deputy CM DK Shivakumar admitted the government did not expect such a massive turnout and announced the postponement of all public events, including World Environment Day celebrations.
Virat Kohli, RCB Express Condolences
RCB star Virat Kohli, reacting to the tragedy, posted on Instagram Stories:
“At a loss for words. Absolutely gutted.”
RCB released an official statement, saying:
“We are deeply anguished by the unfortunate incidents… The safety and well-being of everyone is of utmost importance to us. Our heartfelt condolences to the affected families.”
Nation Reacts: PM, President, Cricketers Mourn
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow, calling the event "absolutely heartrending", and extended condolences to the bereaved families.
President Droupadi Murmu termed it “shocking and heartbreaking,” while cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Anil Kumble shared their sympathies on social media.
“It’s a sad day for cricket… My heart goes out to the families of those who lost their lives while celebrating,” said Kumble.
“Wishing peace and strength to all,” wrote Tendulkar.
Opposition Slams Government for Negligence
The tragedy has sparked a political storm. BJP Karnataka accused the Congress-led state government of “criminal negligence” and failing to plan for the massive crowd.
“No basic arrangements. Just chaos,” the BJP wrote on X.
Senior BJP leader CT Ravi called it a “state-sponsored murder,” blaming the government for the deaths.
Leader of Opposition Chalavadi Narayanaswamy added, “Celebration turned into tragedy—because this government was asleep.”
Past Incidents and Additional Violence
Tragically, the stampede wasn’t the only blot on RCB’s title celebrations. Just a day earlier, a youth in Peenya was attacked during a celebration. His throat was slashed by unidentified miscreants. While his condition is now stable, the video of the bleeding victim went viral, raising questions about law and order.
Police had to resort to mild lathi-charge in multiple areas including Banashankari and 8th Mile, where unruly fans climbed buses and blocked roads.
Governor Calls for Accountability
Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot expressed his condolences and urged a thorough investigation, emphasizing that “such incidents must not be repeated.”
“I urge the government to investigate all lapses and ensure suitable compensation and support for the families of the deceased,” he stated.
A Joyous Occasion Marred by Grief
RCB had landed in Bengaluru to a euphoric welcome, with fans lining streets and shouting slogans for Virat Kohli and the rest of the team. The squad was received by Deputy CM DK Shivakumar at the airport and later met CM Siddaramaiah. The moment, however, will now be remembered not for victory, but for an avoidable tragedy.
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