RCB Stampede Prompts Apologies, Probe, and Debate

A stampede during Royal Challengers Bengaluru's IPL victory celebrations at Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium resulted in 11 deaths and dozens of injuries, after over 200,000 fans overwhelmed the venue's capacity during the victory parade. The chaos was reportedly triggered by poor crowd management, confusion over event status, and nonticketed fans attempting to rush the gates, which led to broken barriers and trampling. Eyewitnesses described a lack of medical assistance and police being unable to control the crowds. RCB players, including Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, issued statements mourning the tragedy and altered their celebration plans in response. The Karnataka deputy chief minister apologized and authorities announced compensation for victims' families, initiated an official inquiry, and pledged improved measures. Meanwhile, BCCI and IPL officials distanced themselves from the event's organization but called for better safeguards in the future.