After Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) won their first IPL title on June 3 by defeating Punjab Kings at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, a victory parade was held on June 4 at Bangalore’s Chinnaswamy Stadium. Tragically, a stampede during this celebration led to the death of 11 people and injuries to many others.

Legal Action and RCB’s Response

Following the tragedy, the police registered a criminal case against Royal Challengers Sports Limited (RCSL), the franchise owning RCB. In response, RCSL filed a petition in the Karnataka High Court, claiming wrongful implication in the case.

• RCSL argued that they had clearly communicated through social media that entry was free but required prior registration.

• They denied responsibility for the stampede.

• DNA Entertainment Network, the event management company handling the celebration on behalf of Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), has also moved the court seeking cancellation of the FIR against it.

Points of Contention

• Police claim that inadequate police deployment outside the stadium led to the crowd becoming uncontrollable.

• FIR alleges that despite the lack of official permission, KSCA, RCB, and DNA went ahead with the event and invited fans via social media and official websites.

• Bengaluru police noted that their officers were on duty around the stadium until early morning but had concerns about simultaneous events happening at the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, which affected permissions.

Investigation and Current Status

• The case has been handed over to the CID for investigation.

• RCB’s marketing and revenue head, Nikhil Sosale, has been placed in judicial custody.

• The Karnataka High Court has stayed police action against KSCA officials for now.

Public Concern and Aftermath

The tragic stampede has raised serious questions about crowd management, permissions for public events, and the responsibilities of franchises and event organizers in ensuring safety during large gatherings.