Eleven Killed in Bengaluru Stampede During RCB Victory Celebrations
Bengaluru Stampede: Eleven people died in a stampede outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during celebrations following a Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) victory. The Karnataka High Court has taken suo moto cognizance of the incident and will hold a hearing at 2:30 PM today. The Aam Aadmi Party and social activists have filed complaints alleging administrative negligence.
What Happened in the Bengaluru Stampede?
On June 3rd, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) created history by winning the 17th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). A celebratory event was organized at Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4th to commemorate the team's victory.
A large number of RCB fans gathered at the stadium to see their favorite players. However, the massive crowd led to a stampede outside the stadium, resulting in 11 deaths and approximately 47 injuries.
High Court Takes Suo Moto Cognizance
The Karnataka High Court has taken suo moto cognizance of this tragic incident and scheduled a hearing for 2:30 PM today (June 5th). The court will review the administrative negligence, security arrangements, and the event's organization.
The High Court's intervention indicates that this was not merely an accident but potentially a result of serious negligence, requiring a thorough investigation.
Political Parties and Activists Raise Concerns
Following the incident, the Youth State President of Aam Aadmi Party-Karnataka, Lohit Hanumanapura, filed a complaint with the Bengaluru police. The FIR named the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and the CEO of M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, accusing them of inadequate management and neglecting public safety.
Similarly, social activist Snehamयी Krishna filed a formal complaint at the Cubbon Park police station. The complaint demanded action under Section 304A of the Indian Penal Code (causing death by negligence) against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, and cricket board officials.
Background of the Incident
A victory celebration was held in Bengaluru on June 4th following RCB's IPL win. This event was organized at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. While organizers anticipated a large crowd, preparations for crowd control and entry management were reportedly inadequate.
The announcement of free entry resulted in thousands gathering outside the stadium without clear instructions or organization. As the gates opened, the crowd surged forward, leading to chaos.
Why Were Security Measures Insufficient?
Following the incident, questions are being raised about the lack of enhanced security for such a large event. The absence of sufficient police force, barricading, emergency exits, and medical support for crowd control is being cited as a major cause of the tragedy.
Typically, such events utilize entry passes and ticket-based entry systems to manage crowds. However, the free entry policy in this instance led to an uncontrollable situation.
Eyewitness Accounts
According to eyewitnesses, thousands of people had been queuing outside the stadium since morning. As the afternoon approached, pushing and shoving began. When one gate opened, the crowd surged uncontrollably, resulting in a stampede.
People were seen falling to the ground and being trampled. Medical assistance was unavailable to many, quickly turning a tragic event into a devastating catastrophe.
