RCB homecoming marred by deaths and injuries in stampede on the way to the stadium via a bus parade on the streets.
RCB homecoming marred as Eleven people died in Bengaluru on Wednesday due to injuries suffered during stampede-like conditions around the Chinnaswamy Stadium.
Karnataka’s chief minister Siddaramaiah said he had ordered an inquiry into the chain of events that led to the tragedy. “I don’t want to defend this incident,” Siddaramaiah said on Wednesday evening. “Our government is not going to do politics on this. I have ordered a magisterial inquiry, and given them 15 days’ time. There are only small gates at the stadium; hope you’ve visited the stadium.
“People entered through the gates, and broke them. A stampede took place; no one expected such a huge crowd. Capacity of the stadium is only 35,000, but two-three lakh people have come to participate in the celebration. I’m not denying or saying nothing happened, that’s why I’ve ordered an enquiry. The pain of this tragedy has also erased the joy of victory.”
Even as RCB’s winning team held the trophy high as celebrations continued in front of at least 25,000 fans who had managed to enter Chinnaswamy Stadium, a number of police officers assigned to control crowds on Wednesday afternoon were observed transporting fans, some of whom were minors, to the hospital in the midst of rain and heavy traffic that had come to a complete stop.
Due of the chaos outside the venue, state police ordered the franchise to limit the duration of the festivities. As the players hurried out of the arena, a planned victory lap around the ground was also shortened.
RCB issued the following statement: “We are deeply anguished by the unfortunate incidents that have come to light through media reports regarding public gatherings all over Bengaluru in anticipation of the team’s arrival this afternoon. The safety and well-being of everyone is of utmost importance to us.
“RCB mourns the tragic loss of lives and extend our heartfelt condolences to the affected families. Immediately upon being made aware of the situation, we promptly amended our program, and followed the guidance and advice of the local administration. We urge all our supporters to please stay safe.”