IPL tragedy as at least 11 people dead in horrible crush at Bengaluru victory parade | Cricket | Sport
At least 11 people have died in stampede-like conditions during Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Indian Premier League celebrations. The cricket team won the IPL for the first time in 18 years following a six-run win over Punjab Kings on Tuesday.
The RCB players celebrated their triumph at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, with thousands of people lining the streets to welcome the team. There were up to 300,000 people in attendance at the victory parade around the stadium, according to the Karnataka state chief minister, with officials only expecting around 100,000.
According to the BBC, there was a crush outside the stadium after masses of people wearing RCB jerseys had made their way towards the venue on all modes of transport.
Dozens of people were injured, with people rushing away to metro stations after reports of 11 people losing their lives in the crush had spread.
And an official said that when the tragedy occurred, the gates of the stadium “were not even opened, but there were so many people trying to push through a small gate that the stampede took place.”
The Karnataka state chief minister Siddaramaiah explained on Wednesday evening: “I don’t want to defend this incident. Our government is not going to do politics on this. I have ordered a magisterial inquiry, and given them 15 days’ time. There are only small gates at the stadium, hope you’ve visited the stadium.
“People entered through the gates, and broke them. A stampede took place – no one expected such a huge crowd. Capacity of the stadium is only 35,000, but two-three lakh (200,000 to 300,000) people have come to participate in the celebration.
“I’m not denying or saying nothing happened, that’s why I’ve ordered an inquiry. The pain of this tragedy has also erased the joy of victory.”
Meanwhile, RCB wrote in a statement: “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 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.”
And Indian prime minister Narendra Modi said that his “thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones.”
