A solemn tribute was unveiled outside the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium to honour 11 fans of Royal Challengers Bengaluru who tragically lost their lives in a stampede during the team’s IPL victory celebrations last year. The memorial, inaugurated by Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara, stands as a reminder of the heartbreaking incident that followed RCB’s historic maiden Indian Premier League title win.
Located near the stadium premises, the memorial ceremony was attended by several key figures from cricket and public administration, including KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad, RCB CEO Rajesh Menon, and senior officials from the Bengaluru police and cricket association. Floral tributes were paid to the victims, reflecting the collective grief and respect from the cricketing community.
Addressing the gathering, Parameshwara acknowledged the scale of the tragedy and the criticism that followed. He said, “Everyone is aware of the tragic stampede incident… 11 youths lost their lives during RCB’s maiden IPL victory celebrations.” He further added, “This tragedy should not have happened, but it did. The government appointed the Justice Michael D’Cunha Commission to identify lapses.”
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The commission’s findings have since guided a series of corrective measures, with authorities working closely with stakeholders to ensure such incidents are not repeated.
Importantly, the stadium is now set to host a match again on March 28, nearly a year after the incident. Parameshwara confirmed that all safety recommendations—both short-term and long-term—have been implemented.
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“The necessary corrections have been made… I believe the police, KSCA, and RCB have made adequate preparations,” he stated. He also expressed confidence in the leadership of Venkatesh Prasad, adding, “It is a challenge for his team, and I wish them all the best.” As cricket returns to Chinnaswamy, the memorial ensures that the memories of those fans remain an integral part of RCB’s journey forward.
