Team India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, has delivered a searing indictment of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) IPL title victory celebration, following a catastrophic stampede in Bengaluru that tragically claimed 11 lives and left dozens injured. The devastating incident, occurring outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday, has cast a profound pall over what was envisioned as a momentous and jubilant occasion for RCB and its passionate fan base.
RCB’s historic IPL win marred by tragedy
RCB’s long-awaited maiden IPL title, secured after an 18-year pursuit, was met with widespread jubilation and meticulously planned festivities. These included a special felicitation ceremony at the Vidhan Soudha by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and an eagerly anticipated open bus parade through the city streets. However, the joyous atmosphere rapidly dissolved into horror when an estimated 250,000 zealous fans converged and surged around the stadium, completely overwhelming the existing security measures and event organizers. The ensuing uncontrolled crowd movement led to a horrific stampede that resulted in the deaths of 11 individuals, among them several young fans, and inflicted injuries upon nearly 50 others.
Gautam Gambhir’s unfiltered condemnation
Speaking to reporters prior to India’s upcoming tour of England, Gambhir was unequivocal in his criticism of the decision to stage such an expansive public celebration. “I was never a believer that we need to have roadshows. Never. When I was playing, I had the same statement, even after winning the 2007 T20 World Cup that we should not have road shows. The lives of people are far more important and I will continue to say that,” Gambhir asserted, his voice reflecting deep concern.
He underscored that the paramount consideration for any celebration must be the safety and well-being of the public, overriding any desire for grandeur or spectacle.
Gambhir strongly advocated for future mass gatherings to be confined to secure, controlled environments such as enclosed stadiums or designated closed-door venues, thereby mitigating the risk of similar catastrophic outcomes. “If we are not ready to hold a road show, we should not do that. You cannot at any point of time lose 11 people,” he added, emphasizing the unforgivable loss of life.
Gambhir also raised questions regarding the level of preparedness exhibited by the event organizers, specifically naming RCB, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and the external event management company. All these entities are now reportedly facing charges of criminal negligence in connection with the tragic events. “We need to be responsible citizens. If we weren’t ready to hold a roadshow, we shouldn’t have done that,” Gambhir reiterated. His remarks resonate with an increasing chorus of voices demanding greater accountability and significantly improved planning for public events, especially in a cricket-obsessed nation like India, where enormous crowds are a common occurrence.
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