Karnataka government to introduce crowd control law after Chinnaswamy stampede

In the aftermath of the tragic stampede at Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium that claimed the lives of 11 Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans during a victory celebration, the Karnataka state government is set to introduce the Karnataka Crowd Control Bill, 2025. The bill aims to tighten regulations around public gatherings and hold organizers accountable for crowd safety.

Also read: Chinnaswamy Stadium stampede: CID steps up probe, seizes 42 CCTV footage clips

Strict Penalties for Organizers
Under the proposed legislation, failure to control crowds at events such as political roadshows, fairs, commercial events, and public conferences could result in a jail term of up to three years and a fine of ₹5,00,000.

Organizers will be required to obtain prior permission from the local police station, and will bear full responsibility for any violence, injuries, or fatalities that occur during their events.

Exemptions and Provisions
Traditional and religious events like chariot festivals, palanquin processions, Urus, and floats are exempt from the bill. However, if disturbances or riots occur at any permitted event, authorities have the power to ban the program, even retroactively. Organizers will also be held liable to compensate victims of any mishaps; if they fail to do so, the compensation amount will be recovered through the auctioning of their property.

A Preventive Step Post Tragedy
This legislative move comes as a direct response to the public outcry over the Chinnaswamy stampede. The government has acknowledged the urgent need for a structured legal framework to manage large crowds and ensure public safety at mass gatherings. The bill, once passed, will mark a significant step in preventing such tragedies in the future and reinforcing accountability.