Talismanic batsman Virat Kohli, in his first words since the June 4 Bengaluru stampede that claimed 11 lives near Chinnaswamy Stadium during RCB celebrations, expressed sadness on Wednesday, saying, "What should’ve been the happiest moment in our franchise’s history… turned into something tragic and vowed to move forward with care and respect."
Royal Challengers Bengaluru took to social media to share Kohli' statement that read, "Nothing in life really prepares you for a heartbreak like June 4th. What should’ve been the happiest moment in our franchise’s history… turned into something tragic."
Virat Kohli further stated, "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.”
The RCB, commenting on this post stated in bold letters, "Virat Kholi reflects on his emotions, and echoes how all of us at RCB feel."
Earlier, under the 'RCB Cares' programme, the Bengaluru franchise had announced financial support of Rs 25 lakh to each of the victims' families.
The official 'RCB Cares' post on August 30 stated: "Our hearts broke on June 4, 2025. We lost eleven members of the RCB family. They were part of us. Part of what makes our city, our community & our team unique. Their absence will echo in the memories of each one of us.".
"No amount of support can ever fill the space they’ve left behind. But as a first step, and with the deepest respect, RCB has extended Rs 25 lakh each to their families. Not just as financial aid, but as a promise of compassion, unity, and ongoing care.
This is also the beginning of 'RCB Cares': a long-term commitment for meaningful action that begins by honouring their memory. Every step forward will reflect what the fans feel, expect, and deserve."
The accident took place after RCB's first IPL championship victory, with thousands of their passionate fans assembling outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4. The festivities went awry as overcrowding resulted in a stampede when fans attempted to push into the stadium.
The accident was subsequently debated in the Karnataka Assembly during the monsoon session.
Discussing the tragedy, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah mentioned that such tragedies have happened in India as well as globally. He added, "No one in the country has ever taken responsibility or tendered resignations in such cases."
Protesting against his comments, BJP and JD(S) MLAs, under the leadership of Opposition Leader R. Ashoka, walked out.
On action taken, CM Siddaramaiah said, "We have suspended five senior police officers. The police had refused permission for the celebrations but did not issue it in writing. RCB and Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) posted tweets between 7.01 am and 8 am. The 7.01 am post received 16 lakh views, the 8 am post 4 lakh views, and the 3.10 pm post 7.10 lakh views. Instead of acting, the police allowed the celebrations and did not get the posts deleted. They colluded with the organisers."
"The justice will not be served merely if I apologise. Justice will prevail only when action is initiated. Criminal cases have been lodged against RCB, DNA Entertainment Private Ltd, and KSCA. The case has been handed over to the CID.
"A chargesheet will be submitted after the court’s consent. We have fulfilled our responsibilities. This incident should never have happened. Once again, I express my regrets,” Siddaramaiah had stated.
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