Tragedy Strikes Celebration: Crowd Crush Claims Lives in Bengaluru

A crowded celebration for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's first IPL championship victory turned tragic when a stampede occurred, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The event's uncontrolled surges and lack of prior preparations have drawn criticism from opposition parties and state officials.

At least 10 people were reported dead and dozens injured following a crowd crush outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Wednesday as thousands gathered to celebrate a historic victory by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The championship parade was canceled due to safety concerns, yet a celebration inside the stadium continued, leading to chaos at the gates.

Onlookers described scenes of panic as fans rushed to enter the venue after the team secured its first-ever title the previous day, defeating the Punjab franchise amidst a raucous crowd exceeding 90,000 in Ahmedabad. Hospital officials confirmed six bodies and 19 injuries were recorded at Bowring Hospital, while Vydehi Hospital reported four bodies and an additional 12 injuries. Authorities fear the toll may rise further.

Siddharth H.N., a graduate student caught in the fray, recounted the overwhelming pressure at the gates and the challenges for police and staff to manage the crowd's energy. The incident has incited backlash, with opposition figures emphasizing the need for accountability concerning security preparations. B.Y. Vijayendra of the Bharatiya Janata Party criticized the state government for neglecting safety protocols in favor of publicity.

Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remarked on social media that the cancellation of the planned parade was a precautionary measure due to the surging crowds. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar confirmed that extensive police presence—around 5,000 officers—had been deployed to secure the event, but they were unable to control the exuberance of the youthful crowd.

The IPL remains one of the globe's richest sporting leagues, owing much of its popularity to stars such as Virat Kohli, who has been emblematic for the Bengaluru team since the league's inception.