What began as a historic night of celebration for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans turned into a moment of national mourning after a deadly stampede outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday claimed 11 lives and injured more than 45 people. The incident occurred during a victory parade organised to mark RCB’s maiden Indian Premier League title win following their win over Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 final. Taking suo motu cognisance of the incident, the Karnataka High Court held an urgent hearing on Thursday.
After reviewing the reports, the High Court adjourned the hearing to next week - Tuesday. However, the HC expressed concern over the lack of crowd control despite prior deployment of over 1,000 police personnel.
Police officials informed the court that the stadium’s 35,000-capacity was vastly overwhelmed as more than 2.5 lakh people gathered. This could be the result of rumours spread that the event was open to all for free.
Moreover, reportedly one of the Karnataka Cabinet ministers has urged authorities to name the RCB team management and Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) officials in the FIR, citing the irresponsible safety measures and poor coordination with local authorities.
RCB To Support Families Of Deceased With 11 Lakh INR
Meanwhile, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru franchise released their official statement on the matter and promised an aid of 10 Lakh INR to the families of the dead victims in the Chinnaswamy Stampede.
"The unfortunate incident in Bengaluru yesterday has caused a lot of anguish and pain to the RCB family. As a mark of respect and a gesture of solidarity, RCB has announced a financial support of INR 10 lakh to each of the eleven families of the deceased. In addition, a fund called RCB Cares is also being created to support fans injured in this tragic incident, " the statement reads.
Our fans will always remain at the heart of everything that we do. We remain united in grief," it added.
Karanataka CM Announces Free Treatment For Stampede Injured People
Hospital authorities have confirmed that most of the injured fans have now been discharged. At Bowring and Lady Curzon Hospital, where 18 patients were treated, only two remain admitted, said Medical Superintendent Dr. T. Kemparaju.
“One patient suffered a fractured leg, and a 14-year-old boy sustained a minor injury near his right eye. He’s under observation due to the location of the injury,” Kemparaju told PTI.
Also, the CM of Karnataka Siddaramaiah has announced that they will bear full medical expenses of the injured people in the Bengaluru stadium stampede on Wednesday - whether private or government hospitals.
Now, the Karnataka High Court will announce the decision on Tuesday.
