Bad news for RCB fans, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium declared unsafe to host after stampede controversy

Bengaluru’s iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is facing an uncertain future as a host of major sporting events, including Indian Premier League (IPL) matches, following the release of the Justice John Michael Cunha Commission report. The commission was set up to investigate the tragic stampede that occurred on June 4, 2025, which claimed the lives of 11 people. The stampede broke out outside the stadium during Royal Challengers Bangalore’s victory parade after their maiden IPL title win. In the wake of this devastating incident, the commission has raised serious concerns over the stadium’s structural safety and its ability to handle large crowds, recommending that it be barred from hosting high-attendance events unless major safety upgrades are undertaken.

The report, submitted after a thorough investigation, outlines multiple critical flaws in the stadium’s design and crowd management systems. One of the most glaring issues highlighted is the limited number of entry and exit gates, which are inadequate for handling the massive footfall that events like the IPL attract. Additionally, the queues for ticket holders were reported to be in close proximity to busy public roads, causing confusion and congestion, which worsened the situation on the day of the tragedy. The commission also pointed out that the stadium lacked proper integration with the city’s public transport and tourist hubs, making it difficult for authorities to manage the inflow and outflow of spectators efficiently.

Furthermore, the report emphasized the absence of an effective emergency evacuation plan that meets international safety norms. In situations of panic or unexpected disturbances, a well-drafted and rehearsed evacuation protocol is crucial, but the current setup at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium falls significantly short in this regard. There is also a lack of adequate parking and designated drop-off areas to manage the movement of a large number of vehicles, which further disrupts urban mobility during major events.

Quoting the commission’s report, the *Deccan Herald* noted, “Any future venue must adhere to international standards.” The panel went on to say that unless the stadium’s infrastructure is upgraded to align with those standards, it would be risky and irresponsible to continue using the venue for large public gatherings. “The existing structure hinders pedestrian and vehicular movement during crowded events,” the report stated bluntly, sending a clear message about the urgency of reform.

The commission didn’t stop at recommending structural changes; it also called for action against several individuals and authorities deemed responsible for negligence and mismanagement. Those named in the report include KSCA (Karnataka State Cricket Association) president Raghuram Bhat, former secretary A. Shanlar, former treasurer E. S. Jayaram, RCB vice-president Rajesh Menon, DNA Entertainment Networks MD T. Venkat Vardhan and vice-president Sunil Mathur, as well as senior police officers B. Dayanand, Vikas Kumar Vikas, Shekhar H. Tekkannavar, C. Balakrishna, and A. K. Girish. These individuals have been accused of either ignoring safety warnings, failing to coordinate effectively, or being complicit in the organizational chaos that contributed to the stampede.

The government is reportedly preparing to take serious action based on these findings, with a decision expected in the next cabinet meeting. If the recommendations are implemented, the consequences could be far-reaching—not only for the stadium and its management but also for cricket fans and RCB supporters, who may not see their team play at the historic ground for some time.

As things stand, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, once known for its electrifying atmosphere and passionate crowds, could soon find itself sidelined until it undergoes a complete infrastructural transformation. The tragedy has cast a long shadow over the venue, forcing both the cricketing and administrative communities to reconsider how such beloved public spaces are managed and secured in the future.