Karnataka Government Blames RCB for Bengaluru Stampede After IPL 2025 Victory; Virat Kohli Video Mentioned in Report

In a shocking revelation, the Karnataka government's official report on the Bengaluru stampede incident has held Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) responsible for organizing unauthorized victory celebrations following their IPL 2025 win, leading to a tragic stampede that claimed 11 lives and injured many others.

📰 Key Highlights:

RCB accused of holding celebrations without official permission.

Virat Kohli’s social media video promoting the event cited in report.

Over 3 lakh fans gathered at Chinnaswamy Stadium, far exceeding its 35,000 capacity.

No proper medical facilities arranged by RCB, DNA Entertainment, or KSCA, alleges report.

🔍 Government Report: RCB Ignored Police Denial

The report, made public on the direction of the Karnataka High Court, reveals that RCB and DNA Entertainment Pvt Ltd had informed police about a potential victory parade on June 3, but formal permission was not granted due to incomplete documentation.

"Despite denial of permission, RCB went ahead with public celebrations," the report states, highlighting that promotional content, including a video featuring Virat Kohli, was posted on June 4, inviting fans to a free-entry event.

🏟️ Overcrowding & Lack of Preparation

According to the report:

More than 3 lakh people attended the celebration.

Only two ambulances, two medical teams, and one fire engine were deployed by police.

RCB, DNA Entertainment, and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) did not provide any medical support, violating city event norms.

⚖️ Tribunal Also Holds RCB Accountable

The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) had earlier held RCB accountable for the crowd mismanagement, stating that the franchise failed to take necessary permits.

"...RCB is responsible for the gathering of 3–5 lakh people. They did not obtain police approval and suddenly promoted the event online..." the CAT order read.

Additionally, the tribunal quashed the suspension of senior IPS officer Vikash Kumar Vikash, asserting that the blame lay primarily with the event organizers.

📣 Legal and Public Backlash

The incident has triggered widespread criticism of the event organizers and their failure to follow public safety protocols, especially after the viral social media promotions. With legal proceedings underway and public outrage growing, RCB and associated organizations face potential penalties and further investigations.