Cabinet approves criminal case against RCB

The Karnataka Cabinet has granted approval to file a criminal case against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) in connection with the tragic stampede near Chinnaswamy Stadium during the IPL victory celebration on June 4. The incident claimed the lives of 11 people and left several others injured. The decision follows the recommendations made by a single-member inquiry commission led by Justice Michael D. Cunha. The report, submitted on July 12, blamed both RCB officials and Bengaluru Police for the mishandling of crowd control, which led to the fatal stampede.

According to the report, RCB conducted the event without the required prior permission, which should have been obtained at least seven days in advance. Despite the lack of approval, police provided security, and both parties failed to anticipate or manage the massive crowd that gathered after RCB’s social media announcements. The report also highlighted that RCB and DNA Entertainment Networks, the event management company, did not inform the public adequately about entry procedures, causing confusion and panic. The Cabinet has also approved departmental action against police officials found guilty of dereliction of duty.

Legal action against DNA is also expected. The report stated that the failure to control gate access and the absence of crowd management planning made the organizers directly responsible. The state government is now preparing to move forward with criminal proceedings, marking a significant move in holding organizers accountable for negligence that led to one of the city’s worst public tragedies.