Did Virat Kohli Know? New Claims Emerge Amid Bengaluru Stampede Backlash

Amid heavy criticism over continuing the RCB felicitation during the stampede, former cricketer Atul Wassan defends Virat Kohli, saying he was likely unaware of the tragedy unfolding outside the stadium.

June 5, 2025: The celebratory mood surrounding Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s maiden IPL title has been deeply overshadowed by a tragic stampede at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium, where 11 people lost their lives and dozens were injured. The crowd, reportedly numbering in lakhs, overwhelmed security as they surged into the stadium for the team’s felicitation event. However, what has sparked widespread outrage is that the felicitation ceremony continued despite the deadly chaos outside.

Also Read: Bengaluru Stampede at RCB Felicitation: 11 Dead, 47 Injured Amid Overcrowding at Chinnaswamy Stadium

Critics have questioned how the celebration, including fireworks and public addresses, went on while fans were gasping for air, injured, or dying just outside the venue. Among those facing flak is Virat Kohli, the face of RCB, who has now been accused by some of being insensitive.

Also Read: Here’s the Timeline of Bengaluru Stadium Stampede That Killed 11

However, former India cricketer Atul Wassan has come forward with a different perspective. Speaking to ANI, Wassan defended Kohli, claiming the player was likely unaware of the situation at the time.

“I cannot believe in a million years that Virat Kohli knew that people were dying outside and the felicitation was going inside,” Wassan said.

He did not extend the same benefit of doubt to others present.

“The politicians, I can believe, because they’re ruthless, thick-skinned, and so is the corporate, which is the RCB franchise. The franchisees don’t care because they have to show the balance sheets. They would have known maybe. It was a lack of communication. By the time Virat and the players got to know, they didn’t have any say in it.”

Wassan insisted that had Kohli known the gravity of the situation,

“He would have immediately walked out.”

Kohli and De Villiers Respond

Following the criticism, Kohli took to Instagram to express his sorrow, writing:

“At a loss for words. Absolutely gutted.”

![Virat Kohli Instagram post]
A post shared by @virat.kohli

Former teammate AB de Villiers also reacted, saying:

“My thoughts and prayers are with those affected by the tragic events at the Chinnaswamy Stadium today.”

Government’s Statement

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confirmed 11 deaths and 33 injuries. He announced ₹10 lakh compensation for each deceased victim’s family and free treatment for the injured.

Also Read: Videos of Bengaluru Stampede Emerge: Show Panic, Overcrowding at RCB Event That Killed 11

Meanwhile, the RCB franchise issued a statement mourning the loss and said they modified the program upon learning of the situation, in accordance with local administration’s guidance.

Public Outrage Mounts

Despite official responses, public anger remains, especially on social media, where questions continue to swirl over why real-time communication failed, and why the celebrations weren’t immediately halted. The opposition BJP has demanded an independent inquiry and accountability for the lapses that led to the tragedy.

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RCB stampede, Virat Kohli news, Bengaluru stadium tragedy, IPL 2025 celebrations, Atul Wassan, Siddaramaiah, DK Shivakumar, RCB backlash, AB de Villiers reaction, Chinnaswamy stampede