Karnataka Government Holds RCB Accountable for Stadium Stampede Incident

Karnataka Government's Findings on RCB's Role

On Monday, the Karnataka government assigned direct accountability to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) regarding the tragic stampede that occurred outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, resulting in 11 fatalities and 75 injuries. Advocate General Shashikiran Shetty informed the High Court that RCB's social media activity incited a significant crowd surge without obtaining necessary permissions from local authorities.

Social Media Posts Sparked Massive Turnout

Shetty explained that the franchise had shared celebratory tweets while still in Ahmedabad after their IPL final victory. These posts announced a 'victory parade' in Bengaluru, inviting fans to join, which led to an overwhelming turnout. He noted that the tweets garnered 130 million views, and although preparations were made for 150,000 attendees, the actual crowd size far surpassed expectations due to these online announcements.

Legal Implications and Arrest of RCB Officials

Additional State Public Prosecutor B N Jagadeesh supported Shetty's argument, emphasizing that RCB did not consult state officials prior to their announcement. The state attributed the uncontrollable crowd to the franchise's communications.

Sosale's Arrest Sparks Legal Row; CM's Role Questioned

During the court proceedings, attention turned to the arrest of Nikhil Sosale, RCB's marketing and revenue head. His defense, led by senior advocate Sandesh Chouta, claimed that the arrest was unlawful, questioning the authority of the Central Crime Branch in detaining Sosale when the FIR was filed by Cubbon Park police.

"The FIR was registered by Cubbon Park police, but Sosale was held by Central Crime Branch. What was their locus?"

Chouta also raised issues regarding alleged verbal instructions from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to arrest officials from RCB and DNA Entertainment, arguing that such directives undermine police independence. Justice SR Krishna Kumar expressed similar concerns, stating,

"At best, the CM could say that 'the accused would be arrested in accordance with law'."

The Advocate General stated he would look into the validity of the CM's remarks. He opposed granting interim relief to RCB, highlighting that the franchise earned over ₹450 crore during the IPL season. He remarked,

"They announced ₹10 lakh as compensation but failed to visit victims or their families. This silence speaks volumes."

The court hearing is set to continue on Tuesday.