Karnataka Cricket Officials Resign After Deadly Stampede at RCB IPL Victory Celebration

Updated on 2025-06-07T15:39:41+05:30

Karnataka Cricket Officials Resign After Deadly Stampede at RCB IPL Victory Celebration

Karnataka Cricket Officials Resign After Deadly Stampede at RCB IPL Victory Celebration

In the aftermath of the tragic stampede during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s IPL 2025 victory celebrations on June 4, senior Karnataka State Cricket Association officials have stepped down, taking moral responsibility for the incident. Secretary A Shankar and Treasurer E.S. Jairam tendered their resignations to the association’s president, expressing regret over the unforeseen tragedy that resulted in the deaths of 11 fans and injuries to nearly 50 others. The celebration, held near the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, was marred by chaos as thousands gathered to witness RCB’s maiden IPL title win.

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru franchise announced financial aid of ₹10 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives and launched a fund, RCB Cares, to support the injured. The IPL champions expressed deep sorrow over the incident and committed to assisting affected families. The police have arrested four individuals, including RCB’s marketing head Nikhil Sosale, as part of the ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, a magisterial inquiry is underway to examine the lapses that led to the crowd disaster.

Criticism has mounted against the franchise and event organizers for proceeding with celebrations immediately after the win without adequate security arrangements. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia highlighted the need for better coordination between the franchise, police, and local authorities to prevent such incidents. The Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, had approved the parade, but the event was disrupted by heavy crowding and rain. Former cricketer Syed Kirmani condemned the event’s management, calling it a “deadly welcome.” Virat Kohli, present at the venue, expressed his heartbreak over the tragedy, calling the incident deeply upsetting for all involved.