RCB Victory Turns Tragic: Stampede Outside Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium Kills 11, Injures Dozens

BENGALURU, June 4 — What should have been a night of celebration turned into a horrific tragedy when a stampede outside Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium killed at least 7 people and left over 33 others injured. Thousands of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans had gathered to mark the team’s historic first IPL title win, but the euphoria spiraled into chaos as the crowd surged uncontrollably.

The incident occurred as fans swarmed the stadium premises, hoping to catch a glimpse of their cricketing heroes during the official victory parade and felicitation ceremony. According to eyewitnesses, people began pushing and climbing over barricades when the gates failed to open on time. Police, overwhelmed by the size and behavior of the crowd, resorted to a lathi charge in an attempt to control the mob.

Among the deceased was a young child, and several others are in critical condition. Local hospitals reported a flood of injured victims, many of them trampled during the crush. Authorities confirmed that the crowd size far exceeded planned estimates, with many arriving without tickets, further straining security and logistical arrangements.

Despite the fatal chaos unfolding just outside the venue, the ceremony continued inside, with RCB players including Virat Kohli addressing a packed stadium. There was no official acknowledgement of the tragedy during the celebrations, prompting public outrage and criticism over the insensitivity and lack of coordination.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar admitted that the crowd was “uncontrollable” and said that police were struggling to manage the situation. “We deeply regret the loss of lives,” he added, assuring that an investigation would be launched to determine lapses and fix accountability.

This heartbreaking incident has cast a dark shadow over what was meant to be a landmark moment in Bengaluru’s cricketing history. It has also reignited serious concerns over crowd management, safety protocols, and event planning in high-stakes public gatherings.