RCB and Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) respond to the tragic stampede outside Chinnaswamy Stadium.
RCB and KSCA Express Deep Grief After Tragic Stampede During Victory Celebrations
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) released a joint statement following the tragic stampede outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium that occurred amid the team’s IPL 2025 victory celebrations on Wednesday. The devastating incident claimed the lives of 11 fans and left 33 others injured.
RCB had planned a celebratory parade from Vidhana Soudha to the Chinnaswamy Stadium after securing their maiden IPL title. However, confusion loomed throughout the day, with Bengaluru traffic police initially denying permission due to potential safety concerns. Despite this, large crowds gathered at the stadium. Chaos erupted as RCB reached Vidhana Soudha to meet Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and a stampede broke out outside the stadium, highlighting severe lapses in crowd control.
In their joint statement, KSCA said:
“RCB – KSCA expresses deep concern and heartfelt condolences regarding the unfortunate incident that occurred during the celebration organised by Royal Challengers Bangalore at M Chinnaswamy Stadium earlier today. We are profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of life and the injuries sustained. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by this incident.”
RCB, in a separate message, added:
“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. The safety and well-being of everyone is of utmost importance to us. We mourn the tragic loss of lives and extend our heartfelt condolences to the affected families. 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.”
The incident has cast a dark shadow over what was meant to be a historic and joyous moment for the franchise and its passionate fanbase.
‘Compensation not intended to replace the value of human life’
In the wake of the tragic stampede that occurred outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) IPL 2025 victory celebrations, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and RCB jointly announced an ex-gratia of ₹5 lakh each for the families of those who lost their lives. The unfortunate incident left 11 fans dead and 33 injured, casting a somber shadow over RCB’s historic title win.
“RCB – KSCA announces ₹5 lakhs to the families of those who have lost their loved ones. We hope this gesture can offer some support and solace in their time of grief,” the statement read. However, the joint statement also clarified that the financial assistance was not meant to equate or replace the value of a human life.
Despite the tragedy, the on-ground celebrations at the Chinnaswamy Stadium went ahead briefly. RCB stars Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli addressed the fans, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support. The team then took a lap of honour with the IPL trophy, marking the end of their 18-year wait for the title. RCB clinched their maiden championship by defeating Punjab Kings by six runs in a thrilling final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.