The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) has stated that the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) appear to be “prima facie responsible” for the stampede that occurred outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, resulting in the tragic death of 11 people. The stampede unfolded after nearly 2.5 lakh fans gathered in and around MG Road and Cubbon Road, following RCB’s announcement of a victory parade from Vidhana Soudha and a fan engagement event at the stadium to celebrate their maiden IPL title.

In its statement, the CAT noted, “Prima facie, it appears that RCB is responsible for the gathering of around three to five lakh people. The franchise did not seek appropriate permission or consent from the police.”

The Tribunal further highlighted that RCB’s announcement was made suddenly via social media on the morning of June 4, leaving the police force with insufficient time to prepare for such a massive turnout. “Due to the shortage of time, the police were unable to make adequate arrangements. RCB created this situation without prior coordination or official sanction,” the CAT observed.

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In a scathing remark, the Tribunal emphasized the limitations of law enforcement: “Police personnel are also human beings. They are neither ‘God’ nor magicians with the powers of ‘Alladdin’s lamp’ to fulfill impossible tasks with a mere gesture.”

CAT says IPL Team #RCB is prima facie responsible for Bengaluru Stampede which claimed 11 lives.

Police is not magician, can’t be expected manage huge crowds if not given sufficient time to make arrangements, the Tribunal observed.@RCBTweets @KarnatakaCops #BengaluruStampede pic.twitter.com/2QdmvohATs

— Live Law (@LiveLawIndia) July 1, 2025

RCB has not yet issued a statement in response to the Tribunal’s comments.

Earlier, legal proceedings were initiated against RCB and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) in the wake of the incident. The tragedy also prompted the resignation of KSCA secretary A. Shankar and treasurer Jayaram, adding further pressure on cricket administration in the state.

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The case continues to raise serious questions about public safety protocols and crowd management in large-scale sporting celebrations.