In a decisive move, the Karnataka Cabinet has approved the filing of criminal cases against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) following a stampede during a victory celebration parade.
The decision comes in the wake of the final report submitted by the one-man inquiry commission led by retired Justice John Michael D’Cunha.
The report, which was formally accepted by the Cabinet on Thursday, highlights “gross negligence and dereliction of duty” by all stakeholders involved in organising the event. According to sources, the commission found that despite clear warnings and logistical concerns, the event was allowed to proceed, resulting in a chaotic stampede that endangered public safety.
Justice D’Cunha’s findings pointed to a collective failure in crowd management, with both RCB and KSCA allegedly ignoring safety protocols. The Cabinet’s approval paves the way for criminal proceedings against those named in the report, marking a significant moment in sports governance and accountability.
The incident has sparked widespread debate about the responsibilities of sporting franchises and governing bodies in ensuring public safety during large-scale events. Legal experts suggest that this case could set a precedent for future actions against event organisers who neglect safety norms.
As investigations proceed, the spotlight remains on how cricketing bodies and franchises handle their public engagements, especially in a country where sports celebrations often draw massive crowds.
