• Source:JND
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Stampede At Chinnaswamy Stadium: A tragic stampede at Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium claimed at least 11 lives and left over 30 injured as fans gathered in overwhelming numbers to celebrate Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s historic IPL victory. What should have been a jubilant day turned into a heartbreaking disaster, marked by chaos, panic, and lives lost. Amid the grief, a representative of RCB made a bizarrely insensitive remark, sparking backlash for appearing to trivialise the tragedy.

Responding to the calamity, the RCB spokesperson reportedly said , “We need to understand the sentiments and raw emotions of people too. They have patiently waited 18 years for this Cup, and all we need is to empathise with them for their vulnerability and emotions. Let’s please try to manage this together.” The comment, made to PTI, triggered a wave of criticism online, with many accusing the franchise of showing a shocking lack of seriousness in the wake of such loss.

Official Statement from RCB On Stampede

Soon after, Royal Challengers Bengaluru issued an official statement seeking to address the mounting criticism. “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 wrote in an official statement.

“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," the statement added.

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PM Modi Calls It 'Absolutely Heartrending'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi termed the incident “absolutely heartrending” and wished a swift recovery for the injured. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced Rs 10 lakh compensation for the families of the deceased and has ordered a magisterial inquiry into the mishap.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of horror and chaos as excitement among fans rapidly turned into panic. Lakhs had gathered outside the stadium, chanting “RCB” while some climbed trees, poles, and walls to glimpse the team. In the surge, people were trampled, shoes were scattered, and torn jerseys lay on the ground.

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Despite a heavy police presence, security personnel struggled to control the unmanageable crowd. Emergency services rushed to assist, but many had already been injured in the stampede. Even amid the emergency response, some young fans continued to cheer from rooftops and compound walls, oblivious to the ongoing crisis below.

 

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