Bengaluru: In a significant gesture of support, Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has announced financial assistance of ₹25 lakh each for the families of the 11 fans who lost their lives in the stampede outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, 2025. The announcement was made on Saturday through the team’s official social media handles as part of their newly launched social initiative, RCB Cares.
Tragedy during title celebrations
The incident occurred during RCB’s title celebrations, less than 24 hours after the team clinched their maiden IPL trophy with a win over Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad. What began as jubilant celebrations turned into chaos as thousands of fans surged towards the stadium gates, resulting in a stampede that killed 11 people and injured more than 50 others.
Emotional statement from franchise
In an official statement, RCB expressed deep grief and described the deceased fans as part of their extended family.
“Our hearts broke on June 4, 2025. We lost eleven members of the RCB family. They were part of us. Part of what makes our city, our community & our team unique. Their absence will echo in the memories of each one of us,” the statement read.
The franchise added that the aid is not merely financial but a gesture of “compassion, unity, and ongoing care.” The newly formed RCB Cares initiative promises long-term action in honour of the victims.
Increased compensation and public response
This announcement marks a significant increase from RCB’s earlier pledge in June, when the franchise had committed ₹10 lakh per family and support for the injured. At the time, critics accused the franchise of offering minimal compensation and failing to engage meaningfully with grieving families.
The Karnataka government had held RCB accountable for lapses in crowd control, while a Commission of Inquiry deemed the Chinnaswamy Stadium “unsuitable and unsafe” for large gatherings, citing structural and design shortcomings.
Towards redemption and long-term care
RCB’s latest move is seen as an attempt to rebuild trust and show genuine commitment to its fan base. Under RCB Cares, the franchise plans to extend its support beyond one-time payments and work on sustained initiatives to commemorate the lives lost in the tragedy.
“This is also the beginning of RCB Cares: a long-term commitment for meaningful action that begins by honouring their memory. Every step forward will reflect what the fans feel, expect, and deserve,” the franchise stated.
Conclusion
Three months after one of Bengaluru’s darkest sporting incidents, the enhanced compensation and launch of a dedicated social initiative mark a turning point for RCB. While financial aid cannot replace the lives lost, it signifies a renewed commitment to compassion and responsibility towards the fans who define the spirit of the game.