Investigations into the tragic stampede that occurred on June 4, 2025, during celebrations for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) IPL victory have revealed a disturbing timeline. According to hospital records, the first death was recorded at 3:45 PM, prior to the commencement of the official felicitation ceremony for the team at Vidhana Soudha. This raises serious questions about the decision to proceed with the celebrations despite early indications of a crisis.
The stampede, which ultimately claimed the lives of 11 RCB fans and injured dozens more, occurred as massive crowds gathered outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, hoping to gain entry to a free event advertised by the team. Reports indicate that the situation quickly spiraled out of control as fans attempted to force their way through the stadium gates, overwhelming security personnel.
Hospital records further indicate that ten more deaths were recorded at various hospitals in central Bengaluru between 4:15 PM and 5:15 PM on June 4th. This occurred while the felicitation ceremony was underway at Vidhana Soudha, where dignitaries including the Governor, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar were in attendance. A separate celebration was also held at the Chinnaswamy stadium between 5 PM and 6 PM.
The timing of these deaths has sparked controversy, with questions being raised about why the celebrations were not immediately halted once the severity of the situation became apparent. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has stated that he did not receive information about the deaths until 5:45 PM, after the Vidhana Soudha event. He also clarified that the event was organized by the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), and that he attended as an invitee. Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar stated that he instructed the stadium felicitation to end as soon as he learned of the stampede.
However, these explanations have been met with skepticism. Opposition leaders have alleged that the government was aware of the casualties much earlier than claimed and that the celebrations should have been called off immediately. Concerns about security risks and inadequate personnel were also highlighted in a letter from the DCP of Vidhana Soudha security to the government prior to the event. The letter warned of potential problems due to the large number of fans expected and the shortage of security staff.
The state government has argued that the massive turnout, estimated to be between 200,000 and 300,000 people, overwhelmed the police and security personnel. They also point out that the event was promoted by the RCB on social media, attracting a huge crowd without any prior police clearances.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, the Karnataka government has initiated multiple investigations, including a judicial inquiry, a magisterial inquiry, and a probe by the state CID. Several top police officials have been suspended, and the government has announced increased compensation for the families of the deceased. The Karnataka High Court is also hearing a suo motu petition regarding the incident. The government is expected to file a report on the stampede deaths before the High Court soon. The KSCA secretary and treasurer have also reportedly resigned, though they deny any direct role in the tragedy.
