Bengaluru Stampede Social Media Reactions:
'Why do we run after cricketers, politicians, or film stars? Our growth doesn't come from these idols. Cricket is just a game – enjoy it and move on...',
This comment on social media came from someone questioning the tragic deaths caused by the stampede outside Chinnaswamy Stadium. What happened outside the stadium left social media users enraged, although some defended the Karnataka government.
Let’s understand the sequence of events; RCB (Royal Challengers Bangalore) defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 6 runs on June 3, securing their first victory in IPL's 18th season. A victory parade was organized in Bengaluru to celebrate, initially planned as an open-bus event, which eventually did not occur.
Later, Karnataka's CM Siddaramaiah mentioned that while the stadium had a capacity of 35,000, over 300,000 gathered outside. Tragically, 11 lives were lost in the chaos.
Following the incident, hashtags like #chinnaswamystadium, #ViratKohli, and #BengaluruStampede began trending. Many users blamed RCB fans' impatience, the Karnataka government, and RCB’s management. Meanwhile, the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) distanced itself from the issue, and Virat Kohli expressed his sorrow over the tragedy.
A user mocked RCB fans, saying, 'Here's why CSK and MI are the most successful franchises – they love and care for their fans.'
Another user commented that RCB’s triumph proved that while they have won a trophy, they lack wisdom.
Shivam, a user, noted – 'Cricketers earn great money, fans spend on tickets and fireworks, and sometimes even lose their lives.'
Some users defended the state government, with one stating, 'The Karnataka government did not hide the truth, allowed media coverage and didn't attempt to cover up the deaths. They embraced the sorrow and stood with the people.'
Another user mentioned, 'DK Shivakumar is the most heartbroken person in Karnataka right now. He did everything for his state, making RCB's victory celebration possible, but no one anticipated a tragedy like this. It's painful and shocking. Stay strong @DKShivakumar, we are always with you.'
What Happened During the Incident
The chaos unfolded while RCB players and leaders celebrated their IPL victory. Despite the inhumanity outside, where people desperately needed CPR and drew their final breaths, grand celebrations continued within the stadium. Fans' favorite players paraded with the cup, oblivious to the tragedy outside.
This was not just a stampede; it was a black blot of administrative failure. The deaths of 11 people have been confirmed. Bowering Hospital received six bodies, including 13-year-old Divyanshi, 26-year-old Diya, 21-year-old Shravan, among three other young victims. Two remain unidentified. Vaidehi Hospital received four more bodies: 20-year-old Bhoomik, 19-year-old Sahana, a 20-year-old youth, and a 35-year-old man. Manipal Hospital reported the death of 19-year-old Chinmayi. Eighteen injured victims are still being treated across various hospitals.
