“Why Blame BCCI?”: IPL Chairman Defends Board Amid RCB Bengaluru Stampede, Cites Lack of Control

IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal gave a strong and clear response to the tragic stampede outside Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium that occurred during RCB’s title-winning celebrations.

BCCI Distances Itself from RCB’s Post-Title Event Amid Stampede Tragedy

The BCCI has clarified it had no involvement in organizing Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s post-IPL 2025 title celebration in Bengaluru, which turned tragic after a stampede outside M Chinnaswamy Stadium claimed at least 11 lives and left nearly 50 injured. RCB’s historic win after an 18-year wait drew massive crowds that overwhelmed security arrangements, leading to chaos just outside the venue—even as the event continued inside.

IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal expressed sorrow over the incident but denied BCCI accountability. “It is sad and tragic. The celebrations turned into a tragedy. Our heartfelt condolences go to the families who lost their loved ones. For the BCCI, the IPL concluded last night. We had no knowledge of such an incident occurring, so how can we be held responsible for it?” he told India Today.

Dhumal also questioned assumptions about BCCI’s presence at the scene. “Have you seen any IPL officials present at the gate, managing the crowd or facilitating the players’ entry?” he asked, underscoring the board’s lack of control over the local celebration logistics.

In contact with RCB officials

Following the tragic stampede outside M Chinnaswamy Stadium during RCB’s post-title celebration, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal revealed that he contacted franchise officials immediately after hearing of the incident.

“Have I been in touch with RCB officials? Yes, as soon as I was informed about the incident, I spoke to them,” Dhumal said. “They told me they were inside the stadium and had no knowledge of what was happening outside. Based on that conversation, I was told they immediately called off the event.”

Earlier, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia also responded, acknowledging lapses in the event’s organization. “I think there were some lapses. The BCCI has no role in it. But it’s a lesson to learn. We will look into forming new rules for such victory celebrations going forward,” Saikia stated.

The BCCI has maintained that it had no involvement in the planning or execution of the celebration and is now considering regulatory changes to avoid similar tragedies in the future.

Sign up fast for e2bet77 now and claim your free bonus with your first registration!