By The Sampadak Express
What was meant to be a jubilant celebration of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s historic IPL victory turned into a heartbreaking tragedy on Tuesday, as a stampede near M. Chinnaswamy Stadium claimed the lives of at least 11 people and left over 25 seriously injured.
Among the injured are several children, and the death toll may rise as many victims remain in critical condition. The incident has cast a shadow over what was supposed to be a momentous day for fans and the city alike.
The catastrophe unfolded as thousands of enthusiastic supporters gathered to witness the team’s victory parade. Eyewitnesses reported that security arrangements were grossly inadequate to manage the overwhelming crowd. As soon as the stadium gates opened, a massive surge of fans rushed inside, quickly overwhelming security and police personnel.
In a desperate attempt to control the situation, police resorted to a lathi charge, which further escalated the chaos. The resulting panic led to a deadly stampede. Emergency services were quickly mobilized, and many of the injured were rushed to Bowring Hospital for treatment.
The RCB team, led by stand-in captain Rajat Patidar, had just landed in Bengaluru and was en route to a felicitation ceremony at Vidhana Soudha when the incident occurred. The Karnataka government had planned a grand welcome for the team, but the tragic turn of events has led to widespread grief and anger.
Public outcry is mounting over alleged lapses in planning and crowd control. Authorities are under intense scrutiny, with calls for a thorough investigation into the security failures that led to this devastating loss of life.
The state government is expected to issue an official statement shortly.
