A night that was supposed to see a landmark moment for Royal Challengers Bangalore ended in disaster as celebrations turned to chaos at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. RCB finally lifted their first title after 18 years in waiting – but, the celebratory swagger was short-lived when a stampede at the celebrations caused 10 deaths and more than 50 fans injured.
Thousands of boisterous RCB fans had assembled at the stadium to see the team’s day of glory. But as the crowd surged out of control, panic gripped the scene, claiming a fatal stampede. The dead included six men and four women. Dozens of others were injured and were quickly transferred to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Based on initial reports and eyewitness accounts, poor crowd management and the absence of proper safety arrangements were primary reasons for the tragedy. In spite of the size of RCB’s win and the public euphoria it had generated, officials have been said to have neglected to take the necessary precautions to deal with the sheer number of visitors.
There were scenes of desperation as individuals gasped for air and were squeezed in the crowd stampede. Some collapsed on the ground, and medics were observed performing CPR. Tragically, some were pronounced dead at the scene. Urgent cases were transported to hospitals instantly for emergency treatment.
Political repercussions followed soon. Karnataka BJP leaders held the state government liable for carelessness and failure to provide safety regarding such a large gathering.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah visited the injured persons at the hospital and extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.