How will we honor the victims of the Bengaluru stampede? Virat Kohli speaks to families

Bengaluru, Sep 3 (NationPress) Cricketer Virat Kohli, addressing the tragic stampede in Bengaluru on June 4, which resulted in the loss of 11 lives near Chinnaswamy Stadium, expressed his commitment on Wednesday to proceed with "care, respect, and responsibility".

In a heartfelt message shared on the official X account of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Kohli remarked, "Nothing in life can truly prepare you for a heartbreak like June 4th. What should have been a moment of joy in our franchise's history turned into a devastating event."

He continued, "I have been reflecting on the families who lost their loved ones and praying for our fans who sustained injuries. Your grief is now intertwined with our narrative. Together, we shall advance with care, respect, and responsibility."

In bold, RCB responded, "Virat Kohli articulates his sentiments, echoing the feelings of everyone at RCB."

Prior to this, the RCB, through its 'RCB Cares' initiative, pledged Rs 25 lakh to the families of those who perished.

The official RCB Cares announcement on August 30 stated, "Our hearts shattered on June 4, 2025. We lost eleven members of the RCB family who were integral to our community and our team. Their absence will resonate in our memories. No support can replace what they have left behind. Nevertheless, as a first step, and with utmost respect, RCB has allocated ₹25 lakh to their families, not just as financial assistance, but as a pledge of compassion, unity, and continued support."

"This marks the initiation of 'RCB Cares': a long-term promise for meaningful actions that begin with honoring their legacy. Every forward step will reflect what our fans feel, expect, and deserve," it added.

After RCB's first IPL title win, thousands of exuberant fans gathered outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4 for the celebrations. Unfortunately, the event spiraled into chaos as the crowd attempted to force their way into the venue, leading to a tragic stampede.

The stampede incident was addressed in the Assembly during the recent Monsoon Session.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, while addressing the Assembly, noted that such tragedies have occurred both in India and globally.

He further asserted that no one in the nation has ever taken responsibility or resigned in similar situations.

In response to this statement, BJP and JD(S) MLAs, led by Opposition Leader R. Ashoka, staged a walkout.

Regarding actions taken, CM Siddaramaiah mentioned, "We have suspended five senior police officers. The police had denied permission for the celebrations but failed to document it. RCB and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) tweeted between 7:01 a.m. and 8 a.m. The 7:01 a.m. post garnered 16 lakh views, the 8 a.m. post, 4 lakh views, and the 3:10 p.m. post, 7.10 lakh views. Instead of taking action, the police allowed the celebrations to continue and did not remove the posts. They colluded with the organizers."

“Justice cannot be served simply through an apology. True justice will come when action is taken. Criminal cases have been filed against RCB, DNA Entertainment Private Ltd, and KSCA. The case has been referred to the CID, and a charge sheet will be submitted after the court's approval. We have met our obligations. This incident should never have occurred. I express my deepest regrets once more,” CM Siddaramaiah stated.