Bengaluru Stampede Tragedy: Activist Demands FIR Against Virat Kohli, Alleges Negligence in RCB Victory Event
Bengaluru Stampede Tragedy: Activist Demands FIR Against Virat Kohli, Alleges Negligence in RCB Victory Event
In the aftermath of the tragic stampede near Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium that claimed 11 lives, a city-based activist has sought police action against Indian cricketer Virat Kohli, holding him responsible for the incident. The complainant, HM Venkatesh, a social activist, submitted a written plea at Cubbon Park Police Station, requesting Kohli be named as the main accused in the case.
According to Venkatesh, Kohli’s presence and association with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) IPL victory celebrations contributed to the overcrowding and chaos that led to the fatal incident. The event was organised by the Karnataka State Cricket Association to celebrate RCB’s first IPL title win since 2008.
Police have acknowledged receiving the letter but clarified that an FIR has already been filed in the matter. Authorities confirmed that the letter would be reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
The stampede occurred outside the stadium on Wednesday after thousands gathered for the event, far exceeding the venue’s capacity. Factors such as free passes, overcrowding, and limited seating are being investigated as key contributors to the disaster.
Following the tragedy, a political blame game erupted. The BJP accused the Congress-led state government of poor crowd management, while the Karnataka government responded by suspending Bengaluru Police Commissioner and four officers for negligence. This move was criticised by the BJP, which claimed the suspension was a political ploy to pacify public anger.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah defended his government, stating that prompt action was taken against officials found “visibly responsible.” He announced ₹10 lakh ex-gratia to each victim’s family and directed free treatment for the 47 injured.
