In a significant turn of events, the Bengaluru Police on Friday arrested Nikhil Sosale, Head of Marketing and Revenue at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), in connection with the tragic stampede outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 2, during RCB’s IPL 2025 victory celebrations.
The fatal incident, which claimed 11 lives, occurred when a massive crowd gathered near the stadium, leading to a severe stampede. The celebration turned chaotic due to inadequate crowd control and alleged mismanagement of the event.
In addition to Sosale, two senior employees of DNA Entertainment Network, the event management firm responsible for organizing the RCB celebration, were also taken into custody. The arrested include:
- Kiran Kumar, Senior Event Manager at DNA
- Sunil Mathew, Vice President – Business Affairs at DNA
These arrests were made at the Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru as they were reportedly attempting to leave the city.
Government Action and Response
The arrests were carried out under the directive of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who addressed the tragedy during a cabinet meeting on Thursday. Expressing deep regret over the incident, Siddaramaiah announced a judicial inquiry and major administrative reshuffling.
The CM revealed that the inquiry will be led by retired Karnataka High Court Judge Justice Michael D’Cunha, who has been tasked with submitting a report within 30 days.
Immediate Suspensions Announced
Alongside arrests, the state government also took strict action against several senior police officers for alleged negligence in handling the crowd situation. The following officials have been suspended:
- B Dayananda, Commissioner of Bengaluru Police
- Vikash Kumar Vikash, Additional Commissioner (West)
- Shekhar H Tekkannavar, DCP (Central)
- Cubbon Park Police Station Inspector
- Assistant Commissioner of Police
- In-Charge Officer of Chinnaswamy Stadium
CID Investigation Underway
An FIR was filed on June 3, and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has been entrusted with the case to determine the lapses that led to the fatal stampede. The government has emphasized its commitment to transparency and justice for the victims.
As the investigation unfolds, families of the victims and the public continue to mourn the tragic loss of lives during what should have been a historic and joyous occasion for RCB fans.
