June 6, 2025: What was meant to be a historic celebration for Royal Challengers Bengaluru has turned tragic, as a stampede near Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium claimed the lives of 11 people and injured 67 others. The event was organized to celebrate RCB’s first-ever IPL title, but the aftermath has sparked public outrage, with some fans demanding action against cricket star Virat Kohli.
🏏 A Night of Triumph Turns Tragic
RCB players, including Kohli and team captain Rajat Patidar, were present at the stadium after being felicitated by Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah at Vidhana Soudha. As massive crowds gathered to get a glimpse of their cricketing heroes, poor crowd control reportedly led to a stampede outside the venue.
Despite the unfolding tragedy, celebrations inside the stadium continued, which has further angered sections of the public.
🚨 Legal Action & Arrests
- Bengaluru Police have registered an FIR against RCB, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), and DNA Entertainment Networks, which managed the event.
- Four officials from RCB and DNA Entertainment have been taken into custody.
- The case includes charges under culpable homicide provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
🔥 Public Backlash: #ArrestKohli Trends
On X (formerly Twitter), the hashtag #ArrestKohli trended as netizens lashed out at the cricket icon.
- Some users are blaming Kohli and RCB players for not halting the celebrations after news of the fatalities broke.
- Others questioned Kohli’s decision to fly to London shortly after the incident, suggesting he should have met with the families of the victims instead.
However, many also defended Kohli, pointing out that event planning and crowd control are not the responsibility of players.
🕵️ Ongoing Investigation
Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the stampede and identify any lapses in planning or security. The state government has ordered a magisterial inquiry, and public pressure is mounting for accountability.
As the probe continues, Kohli and RCB are facing unprecedented scrutiny, turning a long-awaited victory into a deeply polarizing controversy.