The Bengaluru Police have lodged a first information report (FIR) against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) following a tragic stampede that resulted in the deaths of 11 people during an event commemorating RCB’s IPL victory. The incident, which also led to numerous injuries, occurred near the Chinnaswamy Stadium, where a massive crowd had gathered.
The FIR, reviewed by ESPNcricinfo, names RCB as the primary accused, alongside DNA Entertainment, their event partners, and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), which oversees the stadium management. The report was initiated based on a complaint from Girish AK, a police inspector in the Cubbon Park Division.
In a press briefing, the Karnataka Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah, announced the formation of a committee to investigate the matter and instructed the arrest of all parties mentioned in the FIR. He also called for the suspension of the Inspector at the Cubbon Park police station, accountable for the area where the calamity unfolded.
The FIR references six sections of the Indian Penal Code, including charges related to culpable homicide, voluntarily causing harm, and unlawful assembly. To further probe the cause of the stampede, the Karnataka government has set up a Special Investigation Team (SIT). A magisterial inquiry was originally ordered, with a report anticipated within 15 days.
Both the state government and RCB have expressed their condolences and announced a compensation of INR 10 lakh for the victims’ families, along with covering medical expenses for the injured. Discussions are underway to establish new procedures for managing public events to prevent future tragedies.
Efforts to reach RCB for their response are ongoing.
Shashank Kishore is a senior correspondent at ESPNcricinfo.
