Chaos mars RCB celebration in Bengaluru: One dead, over 20 injured in stampede

Joy turned to tragedy on Tuesday as celebrations for Royal Challengers Bangalore’s long-awaited IPL victory took a grim turn. After 18 years of waiting, RCB finally lifted the coveted trophy, prompting thousands of fans to pour into the streets of Bengaluru to welcome their team.

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However, the excitement spiraled out of control as large crowds gathered near Vidhana Soudha and later surged toward the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where the official felicitation event was scheduled. The sudden influx of people resulted in a stampede-like situation outside the stadium gates.

Tragically, one person lost their life in the chaos. More than 20 fans sustained injuries, several of them serious. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and the injured were immediately transported by ambulance to Bowring Hospital. Hospital authorities confirmed that at least three individuals are in critical condition.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and confusion, with some people collapsing due to suffocation and the sheer pressure of the crowd. Many also alleged a lack of proper crowd control measures and insufficient medical support on-site.

The city police have launched an investigation into the incident. While the RCB victory brought immense pride to Bengaluru, the unfortunate events surrounding the celebration have cast a shadow over the festivities, raising serious questions about public safety and event management.