FIR recommended in Chinnaswamy stadium stampede report

The judicial report submitted by Justice Michael D. Cunha on the tragic stampede near Chinnaswamy Stadium, which claimed 11 lives, has revealed severe lapses and recommended criminal action against multiple agencies, including the police, Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), and event organizer DNA. The report, submitted to the state government, accuses these entities of gross negligence and failing to prevent the disaster despite clear warnings. It highlights that the event was organized despite knowing that proper arrangements and safety infrastructure were lacking. Crucially, the report says only 79 police personnel were deployed inside the stadium, with none stationed outside. Emergency response systems, including ambulances and exit plans, were also found to be inadequate.

Justice Cunha noted that even though the stampede occurred at 3:25 PM, Bengaluru’s Police Commissioner was not informed until 5:30 PM. The Joint Commissioner arrived at the stadium around 4 PM. Contrary to official claims, the report states that fewer than 800 personnel were deployed—well below the alleged 1,650. The report strongly recommends departmental action and filing of FIRs against responsible officers. If accepted by the state cabinet, senior officials and organizers may be named as accused in the case.

It also concludes that Chinnaswamy Stadium is unfit for large-scale events due to small entry gates and inadequate fire safety. The findings have sparked demands for accountability and better crowd management protocols in future events.