RCB Pledges ₹25 Lakh Aid to Families of Stampede Victims, Launches ‘RCB Cares’ Initiative…
In a heartfelt gesture, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has announced ₹25 lakh in financial support for each of the families of the 11 fans who tragically lost their lives in the stampede outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on 4 June 2025. The announcement, shared via RCB’s official X and Instagram accounts, marks the launch of their new social outreach program, RCB Cares.
The stampede occurred during celebrations following RCB’s historic first IPL title win over Punjab Kings. Thousands of fans had gathered outside the stadium, but the crowd swell turned deadly, leaving 11 dead and over 50 injured—casting a long shadow over what was meant to be a moment of triumph.
Eighty-six days later, RCB has responded with a more substantial compensation package, acknowledging the depth of the tragedy and expressing solidarity with the bereaved. In an emotional statement, the franchise said:
“We lost eleven members of the RCB family. Their absence will echo in our memories. No amount of support can replace them, but this is a promise of compassion and care.”
The ₹25 lakh aid represents a significant increase from the initial ₹10 lakh pledge made in June, which critics had dismissed as insufficient and reactive. The silence that followed the tragedy had sparked widespread disappointment, with many accusing the franchise of prioritizing celebration over accountability.
The Karnataka government later held RCB responsible for crowd mismanagement, and a Commission of Inquiry deemed the stadium structurally unfit for large gatherings. ESPNcricinfo reported that the venue’s design posed serious safety risks.
With the formal launch of RCB Cares, the franchise now aims to move beyond one-time aid, committing to long-term support and remembrance. The initiative is positioned as a step toward healing and rebuilding trust with the fan community.
