Will Saikia Lead BCCI's New Committee to Prevent Future Stampedes?
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Synopsis
In response to the tragic Bengaluru stampede, the BCCI has formed a committee led by Secretary Devajit Saikia to draft preventive guidelines within 15 days. This crucial step aims to enhance safety during cricket events and avoid similar incidents in the future.
Key Takeaways
- The BCCI has formed a committee to draft safety guidelines.
- Devajit Saikia will lead the initiative.
- The committee aims to prevent future stampede incidents.
- Guidelines are expected within 15 days.
- Additional measures for umpire and referee development have been announced.
New Delhi, June 14 (NationPress) The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the creation of a committee, led by Secretary Devajit Saikia, which will be responsible for drafting guidelines within 15 days aimed at preventing tragedies similar to the recent Bengaluru stampede. Joining him in this committee are Vice-President Rajeev Shukla and Treasurer Prabhtej Singh Bhatia.
This decision, made during the 28th BCCI Apex Council meeting on Saturday, follows the unfortunate stampede outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium that occurred during the victory celebrations for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on June 4, just a day after they clinched the Indian Premier League 2025 title in Ahmedabad. With nearly two hundred thousand fans attempting to enter, the chaos outside the stadium led to eleven tragic fatalities and thirty-three injuries.
The events surrounding the stampede prompted arrests, including that of RCB's marketing chief Nikhil Sosale, who has since been released on bail, as well as officials from DNA Entertainment Networks. Additionally, the Secretary of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), A Shankar, and Treasurer E.S. Jairam resigned from their positions on June 6.
“The Apex Council has expressed its deep sorrow over the tragic events in Ahmedabad and Bengaluru, which resulted in the heartbreaking loss of innocent lives. In response to the incident during the victory celebrations in Bengaluru, the Apex Council has decided to form a committee to create thorough guidelines designed to avert similar occurrences in the future. The committee is expected to finalize these guidelines within 15 days,” stated the BCCI.
Moreover, the Apex Council has established a working group of five umpire coaches aimed at enhancing umpire development and performance on the field. “These five ‘Umpire Coaches’ are required to possess international umpiring experience and should have previously served as umpires,” the BCCI added.
Additionally, the Apex Council has opted to assemble a Working Group made up of three former Match Referees. “This Working Group will oversee the progress of match referees and facilitate avenues for improving their performance in cricket matches,” concluded the BCCI.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize that the BCCI's proactive measures reflect a commitment to fan safety and responsible administration. The formation of this committee, in light of recent tragedies, underscores the need for robust safety protocols in large-scale events, ensuring that the joy of cricket does not come at the cost of lives.
NationPress
15/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the formation of the BCCI committee?
The committee was formed in response to the tragic stampede that occurred during the victory celebrations of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries.
Who will lead the committee established by the BCCI?
Secretary Devajit Saikia will head the newly formed committee aimed at creating guidelines to prevent future incidents.
How quickly is the committee expected to deliver its guidelines?
The committee is tasked with formulating guidelines within a 15-day timeframe.
What are the other notable positions within the committee?
The committee includes Vice-President Rajeev Shukla and Treasurer Prabhtej Singh Bhatia as key members.
What other initiatives did the BCCI announce?
In addition to the committee, the BCCI announced the formation of a working group of umpire coaches and a working group of former match referees to improve officiating standards.
