RCB Blamed for Bengaluru Stampede, Kohli's Video Message Cited in Report

The Karnataka government's report on the tragic stampede at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during RCB's IPL 2025 victory celebrations blames the franchise for serious lapses and mismanagement. The report highlights RCB's inadequate planning, including a last-minute intimation to the police, lack of crowd control measures, and proceeding with the event despite denial of permission.

RCB's promotion of the event, especially Virat Kohli's video message inviting fans to the free-entry celebration, is cited as a major factor contributing to the massive crowd that gathered, exceeding estimated capacity. The government also criticizes the organizers for not adhering to the mandatory procedures for seeking police permission.

Opposition leader Aravind Bellad has criticized the government for shifting blame onto RCB and Kohli after initially taking credit for the team's IPL victory. He argues that the government should have refused permission for the event and questions the suspension of police officers if RCB is solely responsible. The report also justifies the government's decision not to halt the celebrations, citing potential law and order issues.