Police acted as though they were serving RCB’s interests: Karnataka Government tells High Court

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Government has squarely blamed Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), their event partner DNA Networks, and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) for the stampede at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4 that left 11 people dead.

Star cricketer Virat Kohli has also been named in the official report for publicly inviting fans to the unauthorised victory  celebrations. Submitted to the Karnataka High Court, the report reveals that RCB held a massive victory parade on June 4 without securing mandatory permissions from civic authorities or the Police. The unregulated announcement triggered an overwhelming surge of fans, resulting in chaos and tragedy.

The report further criticises Police officials, stating they appeared to act as though they were serving RCB’s interests. It defends the suspension of several officers, including three senior IPS officials, for their handling of the situation.

According to the Government, preparations for the IPL celebration exposed an alignment between officials and the team, causing public embarrassment.

Senior advocate P.S. Rajagopal, representing the State, informed the Court that RCB had submitted a proposal regarding the victory celebration even before the IPL final had been played. However, instead of seeking proper permissions for a large public gathering, Police officials began making arrangements without consulting superiors or securing official approvals.

While RCB did inform the Police on June 3 about a “possible celebration,” it did not qualify as a formal request, as required at least seven days in advance  under the law.

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Defying Police advice, RCB went ahead and used its social media platforms early on June 4 to publicly invite fans to join the parade from Vidhana Soudha to the stadium, announcing free entry. A video featuring Virat Kohli further encouraged participation. Though limited passes were mentioned, the lack of clarity made the event effectively open to all.

Crowd estimates surpassed 3 lakh, supported by metro ridership data showing nearly 10 lakh passengers that day, well above the usual 6 lakh. Viral videos showed dangerously packed streets and uncontrolled crowds, as organisers had failed to share any logistical details with authorities, leaving the Police unprepared.

No formal Police permission was obtained. There was no crowd control plan, no loudspeakers, no trained staff deployment and no public announcements. Organisers also failed to pay for the required Police security, in violation of a 2019 directive.

Despite these lapses, Bengaluru Police deployed over 650 personnel, barricaded key roads, and issued public advisories. However, the unprecedented turnout and lack of coordination made their efforts ineffective.

Holding RCB, DNA Networks, and KSCA responsible for gross negligence, the government has suspended five Police officers for failing to manage the situation.