A memorial has been set up outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru to honor 11 fans of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) who tragically died in a stampede during the team’s IPL victory celebrations. Home Minister G. Parameshwara inaugurated the memorial and paid respects to the victims.
Located near the stadium, this memorial commemorates those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident following RCB’s first IPL title win. Dignitaries present included MLA N.A. Harris, MLC D.S. Arun Kumar, KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad, and RCB CEO Rajesh Menon, among others.
“Everyone knows about the stampede last year, which resulted in the loss of 11 young lives who were celebrating RCB’s maiden IPL victory. The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and the state government faced criticism at multiple levels for this incident,” Parameshwara said, as reported by The Hans India.
“The government took action and provided support to the families. The Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and our team reached out to them at that time. This tragedy was avoidable, and to address it, the government established the Justice Michael D’Cunha Commission to look into the recommended areas for improvement. The Commission has submitted its report, leading to further discussions with concerned agencies about implementing its recommendations,” he added.
Parameshwara announced that the government has approved a cricket match at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 28. After nearly a year, the venue will host a match again, with fans eager to attend while also stressing the importance of safety.
“The Commission has provided both immediate and long-term recommendations. I appreciate KSCA for building this memorial to honor the deceased fans; it serves as a lasting tribute. RCB and other organizations have also expressed their respects. This event allows us to extend our sympathies,” stated Parameshwara.
“We have made necessary adjustments. The police department, Bengaluru civic agency, and our committee have confirmed that the arrangements are adequate. I trust that the police, KSCA, and RCB are well prepared. We have issued directives to ensure that nothing similar occurs in the future, and all parties agree to this. KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad, an experienced International player, is leading the organization. It is a challenge for his team, and I wish them success,” he concluded.
