'Bengaluru Police denied permission, yet...': Senior journalist's video criticising RCB for hosting fan event goes viral

A video of senior sports journalist Vikrant Gupta criticising Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has gone viral, following the tragic stampede at M Chinnaswamy Stadium that left 11 fans dead. In the video, Gupta holds RCB and the authorities responsible for organising the victory celebration despite being denied security clearance by the Bengaluru Police.

Senior sports journalist Vikrant Gupta strongly criticised Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) after a fan event at Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium turned into a deadly stampede. The tragedy occurred during a celebration organised by RCB to mark their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title win.

Bengaluru Police had denied permission for open bus parade

RCB had initially planned an open bus parade in Bengaluru to celebrate their first-ever IPL trophy after 18 years. However, the Karnataka government denied permission, citing an inability to provide adequate security for the event.

Despite the denial, the franchise decided to organise a pass-based event inside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Reports said that thousands of fans arrived, leading to uncontrollable crowds. The event spiralled into a stampede, which resulted in the deaths of 11 fans.

“Who is responsible now?”: Vikrant Gupta

Reacting to the incident, senior journalist Vikrant Gupta released a video that went viral across social media platforms. In it, he said, “The government had denied permission for the celebration. Why was the event held anyway? Who is responsible now for this disaster?”

Gupta pointed out that RCB and the organisers should have respected the government's decision, especially in a city known for heavy fan turnout. His comments have sparked a wider debate about the lack of coordination between the franchise and state authorities.

Public figures and fans join in the criticism

The incident has drawn responses from cricketers, journalists, and fans alike. Many questioned how the event was allowed without a robust security plan in place. Some also criticised the rush to celebrate without assessing public safety risks.

RCB’s day of celebration ends in grief

The event, meant to mark a historic win, has instead raised serious concerns over accountability and event planning. With calls growing for a formal inquiry, attention has now turned to both the franchise and local authorities over their roles in the tragedy.