A celebration meant to honour Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s historic IPL 2025 win ended in devastation on June 4, when a stampede outside Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium claimed 11 lives and injured dozens. The tragedy unfolded as thousands of fans crammed into a small area between Vidhana Soudha and the stadium, hoping to see their champions.
Originally planned as a short, 2-km victory route, the parade became a flashpoint due to confusion over permissions. Police had denied clearance for an open-top bus parade, citing crowd management concerns. However, around 3 PM, RCB’s official social media announced a 5 PM parade and released limited free passes online — contradicting police communication and triggering a surge of fans.
Police estimate over 50,000 people gathered in the one-kilometre vicinity, many trying to scale barricades and force their way in. “Even with deployment, the crowd was beyond control,” said a senior officer.
Criticism has intensified against RCB’s management for what many call “irresponsible handling.” Former India cricketer Madan Lal openly blamed RCB for not coordinating adequately with the authorities. “The BCCI isn’t at fault. It was RCB’s responsibility to plan better,” he said, also questioning the rushed timing of the celebrations.
“There was no need for such haste. The communication gap was deadly. In this country, sadly, human lives are still not valued enough,” Lal added.
As questions mount over accountability and planning, the grief-stricken city mourns a tragedy that could have — and should have — been prevented.
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