RCB Victor Parade Stampede: Karnataka Clears RCB Vidhana Soudha Event Despite Stampede Chaos: Official Letter Emerges

The Karnataka government has officially granted permission for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) celebration at Vidhana Soudha — even as a tragic stampede unfolded during the event, drawing heavy criticism from the public and opposition.

Letter Reveals Official Approval Amidst Tragedy

An internal government letter has come to light confirming that authorities in Bengaluru gave explicit clearance for RCB’s victory event at the iconic state building. The approval raises serious accountability questions, given that the gathering drew over 200,000 fans and quickly spiraled into chaos.

Stampede and Garden Damage Spark Outrage

What began as a jubilant event turned tragic when hundreds of fans surged around Vidhana Soudha and nearby Cubbon Park. The chaotic crowd led to a deadly stampede outside Chinnaswamy Stadium—causing multiple fatalities and dozens of injuries, along with widespread bulldozing of flower beds and historic greenery.

Political Fallout: Blame & Accountability in Focus

In response to the disaster, Karnataka’s Chief Minister suspended five senior police officials and called for the arrest of top RCB and Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) officials. The opposition has ramped up its criticism, demanding resignations and filing legal petitions.

The CM emphasized that both law enforcement and event organizers will be held fully accountable as probe panels are formed to investigate failures in crowd control and public safety measures.

Healing Garden Scars and Restoring Trust

The damage to Cubbon Park and Vidhana Soudha gardens has been estimated at ₹25 lakh, and a restoration plan has been announced. Environmentalists are calling for stricter protocols to protect green zones during large-scale events, advocating coordinated planning between civic bodies, police, and event organizers.

This episode not only highlights failures in crowd management but also calls for stringent policy measures governing mass gatherings in culturally sensitive and high-profile public spaces.