Bengaluru RCB Fans Stampede Case: Karnataka Govt Blames BCCI, RCB For Mishap

The Karnataka High Court is currently reviewing bail applications related to the Bengaluru stampede incident. The state government has attributed the tragedy, which resulted in 11 fatalities, to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). They allege that these organisations did not seek necessary permissions and mismanaged the event.

During a hearing, Advocate General Shashi Kiran Shetty argued that RCB and BCCI were responsible due to their agreement on security and ticket management. He highlighted social media posts by RCB inviting fans without clarifying entry protocols, leading to chaos when 3.5 to 4 lakh people gathered at a stadium meant for 33,000.

Allegations of Mismanagement

The state accused the organisers of failing to apply for necessary licences seven days prior to the event. Instead, they only sent an intimation letter from the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), which did not constitute a formal request for permission. This oversight was deemed a legal violation.

The Advocate General further alleged that RCB misled the court by portraying the event as a government function. He clarified it was a private RCB event. He also noted that various entertainment programmes were planned without approval, compounding the issue.

Legal Proceedings and Accusations

In response to petitions challenging arrests related to the incident, Justice SR Krishna Kumar presided over the case. The petitioners' counsel argued against vicarious liability under Indian law, but the judge acknowledged an existing agreement between RCB and DNA regarding responsibilities.

The Advocate General criticised RCB's lack of crowd control measures like barriers or signage, attributing this negligence directly to the deaths and injuries. He stated that no clear plan or government approval was obtained, making them accountable for the tragedy.

Investigation and Arrests

A magisterial and judicial inquiry was initiated soon after the incident. The investigation was transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), with certain police officials suspended and replaced promptly. The Advocate General assured that all procedures were followed during this process.

He also claimed that Nikhil Sosale, RCB's marketing head, attempted to flee by purchasing air tickets shortly after the incident. This action raised suspicions about his intentions post-tragedy.

State's Stance on Accountability

The state maintained that organisers sought publicity rather than ensuring safety. They failed to implement adequate arrangements or obtain necessary approvals from authorities. Consequently, they are held directly responsible for the fatalities resulting from their actions.