‘How can BCCI be held responsible?’: IPL chairman distances board from RCB stampede

IPL chairman Arun Dhumal has defended the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after the stampede that claimed 11 lives and left over 30 injured outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) IPL 2025 title celebration. Dhumal asserted that the BCCI had no prior information or operational control over the on-ground event, calling the tragedy “heartbreaking” but beyond the board’s jurisdiction.

“How can the BCCI be held responsible for something we didn’t even know was happening?” Dhumal questioned, emphasizing that the IPL had officially concluded the previous day in Ahmedabad, and all official duties were wrapped up. “When I called there to find out what was going on, even people inside the stadium had no idea of the chaos unfolding outside.”

The stampede occurred outside Gate 2 of the stadium as fans gathered in massive numbers, unaware of the event’s status amid conflicting information and last-minute changes. Confusion escalated after the Bengaluru Traffic Police initially denied permission for a victory parade citing crowd control issues, but tens of thousands had already amassed near the stadium.

“The day was supposed to mark a historic win for RCB. Instead, it has become one of mourning,” said Dhumal. “It’s truly unfortunate. Our condolences go out to all those who lost loved ones.”

The chaos reportedly began as barriers outside the stadium gave way under pressure from the surging crowd. Panic ensued, leading to people being trampled as police struggled to contain the situation. Emergency responders rushed the injured to nearby Bowring and Vydehi Hospitals, where many survivors spoke of the horror and helplessness they witnessed.

In a carefully worded statement, Dhumal clarified the boundaries of the IPL’s role:

“The IPL concluded yesterday. As far as the BCCI is concerned, we had no hand in the planning or execution of what happened today. Operational matters like permissions, security, and local coordination lie with event organizers and the concerned state administration.”

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), which co-hosted the in-stadium event, issued a statement expressing “deep concern and heartfelt condolences” and announced a compensation of ₹5 lakh to each victim’s family. The Karnataka government later added ₹10 lakh more in ex gratia compensation.

Despite the tragic events, a subdued celebration went ahead inside the stadium, where players like Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar addressed fans and took a solemn lap of honour. The victory over Punjab Kings — RCB’s first IPL title win in 17 years — has now been marred by a catastrophe that many say could have been prevented with better planning and coordination.

The incident has triggered public anger and political finger-pointing over crowd management and the lack of clarity in event communication. Questions remain over how such a large-scale celebration was allowed without clear approval, structured security, or proper coordination between stakeholders.

As investigations begin, the BCCI has made it clear: the board stands by the victims but distances itself from accountability.

“This was not an IPL event. The BCCI had no operational involvement. We grieve for the lives lost, but organisational responsibility lies elsewhere,” Dhumal concluded.

(With inputs from syndicated feed)