The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have released an official statement in the aftermath of a stampede outside of the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Having won their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) trophy on June 3, RCB announced a victory parade in Bengaluru. The celebrations were to end at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium with 35,000 people in the stands.
However, even before RCB would start the open bus parade, a stampede happened outside of the ground. This forced RCB to change the plans and immediately go to the stadium. The move was criticised regardless. By the time their celebrations ended, 11 people had lost their lives in the stampede and 50 more were injured.
RCB’s statement after the Bengaluru stampede
A few hours later, RCB has addressed the situation. In a statement released online, the newly crowned champions said:
“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.”
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced a Rs 10-lakh compensation to the families of victims and assured that everyone who’s been injured will be treated free of cost.
“This was a major tragedy. People have died in a stampede. Eleven lives have been lost and 33 others are seriously injured. Around 14 people have taken treatment at the outpatient facility. I visited the hospital. Such an incident should never have happened, and the government deeply regrets it. Most of the deceased are young. The government will provide a compensation of ₹10 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives,” the Karnataka CM said in a press conference.
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