Following the tragic stampede at Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, 2025, which resulted in the deaths of 11 people and injuries to over 50, the Karnataka government has ordered a high-level investigation into the incident. The probe has been handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), with a Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed within the CID to ensure a thorough and impartial inquiry. This decision was conveyed to the Karnataka High Court on June 5, 2025, during a hearing where the court took suo motu cognizance of the tragedy.
The government's action underscores the severity of the situation and the need for a comprehensive understanding of the factors that led to the stampede. The incident occurred during a public celebration organized to mark Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) victory in the IPL. A massive crowd had gathered outside the stadium, and the situation reportedly spiraled out of control due to rumors of free passes being distributed, leading to a chaotic rush towards the entry gates.
In addition to transferring the case to the CID, the Karnataka government has taken swift disciplinary action against top police officials. Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayananda has been suspended, along with other senior officers, for alleged dereliction of duty. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has directed authorities to arrest representatives from RCB, the event management company DNA Networks, and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), holding them accountable for the lapses that contributed to the tragedy.
An FIR (Crime No. 123/2025) has been registered at the Cubbon Park Police Station, invoking several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including those related to endangering human life, causing death by negligence, and failing to ensure safety measures at large gatherings. The government has also announced a judicial inquiry, to be led by retired Karnataka High Court judge Justice Michael D'Cunha, to further investigate the incident and submit a report within 30 days.
The Karnataka High Court has directed the state government to submit a detailed status report by June 10, addressing key aspects of the tragedy, including the causes of the stampede, potential preventative measures that were not taken, and steps to avoid similar incidents in the future. The court's intervention highlights the importance of accountability and the need for systemic improvements in managing large public gatherings.
Meanwhile, various organizations have announced compensation and support for the victims and their families. The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has announced an additional compensation of Rs 5 lakh. RCB is creating a fund called RCB Cares to support fans injured in the incident.
The Bengaluru stadium stampede has prompted serious concerns about safety protocols and crowd management at public events. The government has indicated that it is considering issuing fresh Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to better regulate such gatherings and prevent future tragedies. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and acknowledged that the incident has tarnished Bengaluru's image. He assured the public that the government is taking full responsibility and is committed to ensuring that such an event never occurs again.
