RCB's IPL victory celebration turns deadly as stampede claims 11 lives, injures 33

What was meant to be a historic day of jubilation for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans turned into a nightmare on Wednesday, as a massive stampede outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium left at least 11 people dead and 33 injured.

- MPOST BUREAU

The tragedy unfolded when an overwhelming crowd—estimated at over 2-3 lakh—gathered to celebrate RCB's maiden IPL title, far exceeding the stadium's capacity of 35,000. Chaos erupted as fans surged toward multiple entry gates, triggering panic and a stampede that turned the celebration into a scene of horror, with police struggling to control the spiraling crowd.

"11 are dead and 33 injured due to stampede near Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. More than 2-3 lakh people came, and no one expected this much crowd," Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said at a press conference.

He also said that the stadium could only accommodate 35 thousand spectators. The chief minister announced a magisterial inquiry into the incident and a Rs 10 lakh compensation to the kin of the deceased.

The stampede took place when thousands of fans attempted to enter the stadium from various gates. Police had a tough time controlling the crowd, triggering chaos and turning a joyful event into a tragedy.

Police used mild force to control the crowd and bring the situation under control ahead of a special felicitation at the stadium for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) team organised by the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA).

Meanwhile, the felicitation of the players went ahead nonetheless, as the stadium was packed to the rafters despite the chaos outside the stadium.