RCB Announces ₹2.75 Crore Financial Aid for Stampede Victims' Families
The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) cricket franchise has announced financial aid of ₹25 lakh each for the families of the 11 people who died in a stampede outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The tragedy occurred on June 4 during the team's IPL 2025 victory celebrations. The compensation is part of a new 'RCB CARES' initiative, which the franchise described as a long-term commitment to its fan community, launched following public criticism over its prolonged silence on the matter.
Unpacked:
The stampede was triggered by overcrowding and inadequate crowd control near the stadium gates, after an announcement of free passes led thousands of fans to rush the entrances during RCB’s IPL victory celebrations.
RCB faced public criticism for its prolonged silence and for initially offering ₹10 lakh compensation per family, which was later increased to ₹25 lakh when announcing the 'RCB CARES' initiative as a gesture of long-term commitment.
The stadium was temporarily barred from hosting competitive matches, with major events moved elsewhere. The Karnataka government and safety commissions have intensified scrutiny of stadium management and emergency preparedness to prevent future tragedies.
Stampedes are relatively common in India during large public gatherings. For example, at least 30 people were killed during the Maha Kumbh festival in January 2025, highlighting ongoing challenges with crowd management at major events.