The Karnataka state government has officially placed the blame on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the tragic stampede outside M Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, 2025. The incident resulted in the deaths of 11 people and injuries to over 50 others. The findings were revealed in a status report released on July 17, following orders from the Karnataka High Court.
RCB Proceeded Without Permission Despite Police Rejection
According to the report, RCB, along with event partner DNA Networks and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), failed to obtain proper permissions for the victory parade. Despite a formal rejection by local police, the franchise went ahead with the event.
The report stated: “There was no formal request for permission from the organisers, nor were the required details provided. As a result, permission was not granted.” Yet, RCB posted invitations on social media early on June 4, encouraging fans to gather and celebrate the IPL 2025 victory.
Massive Turnout Sparked by Viral Campaign and Fan Frenzy
KSCA CEO Subhendu Ghosh had informed police of the potential parade only the night before, leaving officials little time to prepare. Nevertheless, RCB promoted the event with high-profile posts, including a video from Virat Kohli urging fans to join the celebration.
The video and posts gained immense traction online, particularly on cricket-focused platforms like Jeetbuzz, where fans from across the country reacted with enthusiasm. This digital buzz contributed significantly to a crowd that swelled to over 300,000 people—far beyond the stadium’s 35,000-person capacity.
Confusion at Gates Due to Late Clarification on Passes
Crowds began arriving around 3:00 PM, overwhelming entry points around the stadium. Many fans believed the event was open to all, following initial social media posts. However, at 3:14 PM—just minutes before the scheduled start—RCB and DNA Networks clarified via social media that free entry would only be allowed for those holding limited passes.
This late announcement led to widespread confusion and anger among fans, many of whom had already gathered in large numbers. The report confirmed that the chaos at the gates was a direct result of this poor communication.
Failure to Follow Licensing Procedures and Planning Protocols
Authorities highlighted that RCB did not seek approval under the Licensing and Controlling of Assemblies and Processions (Bangalore City) Order, 2009. A simple intimation was sent, but no official license request or detailed plan was submitted.
As a result, local police were forced to handle crowd control without adequate preparation. Several entry gates—particularly Gates 1, 2, and 21—experienced overcrowding and security breakdowns.
Police Response Criticized as Investigation Nears Completion
The Karnataka government has also contested a tribunal decision to reinstate suspended officers, including IPS officer Vikash Kumar. Officials argue that these officers failed to act proactively, and instead only arranged basic bandobast measures without issuing prohibitory orders.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is now in the final stages of its probe. Statements from senior officials of RCB and DNA Networks have already been recorded. While no exact timeline for a final ruling has been announced, many cricket followers on platforms like Jeetwin are watching the case closely, expecting accountability and improved safety measures moving forward.
