BENGALURU: A celebratory event to mark Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s historic IPL title win turned tragic on Wednesday, as a stampede near the Chinnaswamy Stadium claimed 11 lives and left 33 others injured.
Thousands had gathered outside the stadium to join in the celebrations after RCB’s long-awaited victory. The crowd swelled beyond control, leading to panic and a deadly crush.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed deep sorrow over what he described as an “unexpected tragedy.” He announced a compensation of ₹10 lakh for the families of those who lost their lives and ordered a magisterial inquiry into the incident.
“The Karnataka State Cricket Association had organised a programme to celebrate the victory, while the state government also had a parallel event at Vidhana Soudha. Unfortunately, a major tragedy unfolded near the stadium,” Siddaramaiah told reporters after visiting the injured at two city hospitals.
Most of the deceased were young, including students and working professionals, he said.
RCB’s title win, a first in the franchise’s 18-year history, came after a six-run victory over Punjab Kings in the final held in Ahmedabad on Tuesday night. The celebration, meant to be a moment of joy for fans, ended in unimaginable sorrow for many families.
