Will move forward with care and responsibility: Kohli breaks silence on Bengaluru stampede

Senior Indian batter Virat Kohli on Wednesday broke his silence over the June 4 Bengaluru stampede that claimed 11 lives near M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during RCB’s IPL title celebrations.

In a post on the social media platform Instagram, the former RCB captain said, “What should’ve been the happiest moment in our franchise’s history… turned into something tragic. I’ve been thinking of and praying for the families of those we lost… and for our fans who were injured. Your loss is part of our story now. Together, we will move forward with care, respect and responsibility.”

RCB shared Kohli’s statement on social media, saying, “Virat Kohli reflects on his emotions, and echoes how all of us at RCB feel.”

Earlier, under its ‘RCB Cares’ initiative, the franchise had announced financial aid of Rs 25 lakh each for the families of the deceased.

The stampede occurred when around three lakh fans gathered outside the stadium to celebrate RCB’s maiden IPL title. Chaos ensued as the overcrowded venue led fans to forcefully enter the premises.

The tragedy was also discussed in the Karnataka Assembly during the recently concluded monsoon session. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, while addressing the House, said such incidents had occurred both in India and abroad. He noted that five senior police officers had been suspended and criminal cases filed against RCB, DNA Entertainment Pvt Ltd, and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA).

“The police had refused permission for the celebrations but did not issue it in writing. Instead of acting, they allowed the celebrations and did not get the posts deleted. They colluded with the organisers,” Siddaramaiah said.

The CM added that justice would not be served merely by apologies, and that chargesheets would be submitted after court consent.

“This incident should never have happened. Once again, I express my regrets,” Siddaramaiah said.