A night meant to mark joy and triumph ended in unspeakable tragedy as 11 people lost their lives and more than 30 were injured in a stampede at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during celebrations for Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s historic Indian Premier League (IPL) win.
The event on June 4, hosted to celebrate RCB’s maiden IPL triumph after 18 years, turned chaotic as thousands gathered at the stadium’s gates, many drawn by last-minute free passes.
The stampede, which erupted near Gate No. 7, was fuelled by a sudden surge in the crowd after rumours spread that ticket distribution was happening there, reported The Times of India.
Among the victims was the only son of a grieving father who pleaded with authorities not to perform an autopsy. “Don’t cut him into pieces,” he wept, urging officials to return the body of his child.
The crowd had swelled beyond capacity as entry to the felicitation ceremony was free. As narrow entry points became clogged, panic ensued.
Rain around 5.30pm worsened the situation, with fans jostling to enter before being drenched. Visuals from the scene showed injured and unconscious fans being rushed to nearby hospitals.
Superintendent of Police Rohit Rajbir Singh confirmed that 11 people died and over 30 were injured. “Gate 7 became a death trap. Barricades were insufficient, and the number of personnel deployed was far below what was needed,” he said.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has ordered an inquiry into the tragedy, with a full report expected in 15 days, reported the Hindustan Times.
Initial investigations revealed several lapses, including poor coordination: police near the venue lacked full knowledge of the day’s schedule; inadequate security: a large crowd was managed by an underprepared force, with minimal barricades; confusion over entry: gates were opened one at a time without prior notice, sparking chaos; insufficient communication: attendees were unaware of entry points or event structure; and limited medical support: shortage of ambulances.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar admitted the event’s last-minute nature left little time for preparation. “You can’t lathicharge young, enthusiastic fans,” he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, saying, “In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for a speedy recovery for the injured.”
