A memorial outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru has been unveiled in memory of 11 Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)fans who lost their lives
in a stampede during the team’s IPL victory celebrations. Home Minister G. Parameshwara inaugurated the memorial and paid floral tributes to the victims.
It was constructed near the stadium premises and honours those who died in the tragic incident that occurred during celebrations following RCB’s IPL title win. Several dignitaries were present on the occasion, including MLA N.A. Harris, MLC D.S. Arun Kumar, KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad, RCB CEO Rajesh Menon, Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh, and KSCA office-bearers Santosh Menon, Sujith Somasundar, and Vinay Mrityunjaya.
“Everyone is aware of the tragic stampede incident last year, in which 11 youths who had come to celebrate RCB’s maiden IPL victory lost their lives. At that time, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and the state government faced criticism at national and international levels,” said Parameshwara as quoted by The Hans India.
“The government intervened and initiated several measures. The families of the deceased were consoled by the Chief Minister, the Deputy Chief Minister, and all of us. At that time, KSCA and RCB also expressed their condolences. This tragedy should not have happened, but it did. The government, in its wisdom, appointed the Justice Michael D’Cunha Commission to identify lapses. The Commission submitted its report, and based on it, the government held discussions with all concerned agencies and directed them to implement its recommendations,” he added.
Parameshwara further stated that, as per the government’s decision, permission has been granted to host a cricket match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on March 28. After nearly a year, the venue is set to host a match again, with fans expressing excitement while also emphasising the need for caution.
“The Commission has outlined both short-term and long-term recommendations. I thank KSCA for constructing this memorial in memory of the deceased fans. It stands as a lasting tribute. Similarly, RCB and other agencies have also paid their respects. Through this event, we have expressed our condolences,” said Parameshwara.
“The necessary corrections have been made. The police department, the Bengaluru civic agency, and our committee are satisfied with the arrangements. I believe the police, KSCA, and RCB have made adequate preparations. We have issued directions to ensure that no such incident occurs in the future. All parties have agreed to this. KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad, who has represented the country at the international level, is leading the organisation. It is a challenge for his team, and I wish them all the best,” he added.
