Bengaluru stampede: The difficulty of Indian Premier League Champion Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) increased when the Lokpal-cum-conduct officer (retired) of the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI), Justice (retired) Arun Mishra directed the franchise and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) to file a written in Bangalore in Bangalore. 11 people were killed in the stampede.
Following the official complaint lodged by IPS officer Vikas Kumar, the Lokpal has given four weeks to reply to RCB and KSCA.
PTI has a copy of Lokpal’s instructions.
The complainant has also urged the Lokpal that until the investigation of the tragedy is completed, the existing owners should be prevented from selling the franchise.
Justice Mishra wrote in his directive, “It is considered appropriate that Karnataka (State) Cricket Association, as well as the concerned franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore should be asked to give their written reply on the complaint.”
He said, “This complaint has been lodged in connection with the unfortunate stampede at M Chinnaswamy Stadium on 4 June 2025. The complaint accused the Royal Challengers Bangalore franchise of gross negligence and violation of security criteria. The complainant has said that accountability should be fixed. Prayers have been prayed to suspend the RCB franchise and invalidate the ongoing conversation about selling it. ”
Justice Mishra also mentioned in his instruction that complainant Vikas Kumar will get 10 days to give a counter affidavit to the defendants.
He said, “KSCA and RCB should file their written reply on the complaint within four weeks, as well as a copy to the complainant. Explain the reasons why not given relief and sought relief in the rules. If necessary, a counter affidavit can be filed to the defendant within 10 days with per per.
One of the potential reasons for seeking written explanation from RCB may be that there are speculation that the sale of franchisees is under consideration, which is allegedly trying to remove himself from the recent tragedy.
It said, “fears have been expressed that the franchisee may try to sell itself from accountability and sell ownership to avoid possible consequences.” Meanwhile, the status quo should be maintained.
Recently, the Central Administrative Tribunal also held RCB responsible for the huge crowd, killing 11 fans including women and children.
The tribunal also quashed the suspension order of the Karnataka government against senior IPS officer Vikas Kumar, which faced action after the stampede. Vikas Kumar later challenged the Karnataka government’s decision. (Language)
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