Gautam Gambhir, the head coach of the Indian cricket team, has strongly criticized the organizers of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) IPL title celebration, following a tragic stampede that resulted in 11 fatalities and numerous injuries. Gambhir, known for his forthright views, didn't mince words, emphasizing that "lives are far more important than roadshows" and calling for greater responsibility in managing such events.
Gambhir made his remarks during a press conference ahead of the Indian team's departure for their Test tour of England. He conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and stressed the importance of prioritizing human safety above all else. He stated that he has never been in favor of open-road victory parades, even during his active cricketing career, including after India's T20 World Cup win in 2007 and his IPL victories with Kolkata Knight Riders. He reiterated that these events could be held behind closed doors or inside a stadium to better ensure the safety of fans.
"I do not think we should have road shows. In the future, we can be more sure about this. My heart goes out to the people who lost their lives. We are all equally responsible for this. All I can say is, we need to be responsible. Every life matters. If we are not ready to hold a road show, we should not do that. You cannot lose 11 people," Gambhir stated firmly.
His comments reflect a long-held belief about the potential dangers of large public gatherings, especially in the context of passionate sporting fandom. According to Gambhir, public safety should always be the top priority, regardless of how exciting or emotional the occasion might be. He urged organizers to plan more cautiously in the future, emphasizing that no celebration is worth the loss of lives.
The stampede occurred outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, where thousands of fans had gathered to celebrate RCB's maiden IPL title win. The overwhelming crowd size led to chaotic scenes, resulting in the tragic loss of life and leaving many injured. Following the incident, the Karnataka government announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased and has initiated a magisterial inquiry into the incident. An FIR has also been filed against RCB, the event organizers, and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) for criminal negligence.
Gambhir's stance has resonated with many who believe that the safety of fans should be paramount. His remarks have sparked a broader discussion about the planning and execution of large-scale public celebrations, with many calling for stricter safety measures and a more cautious approach to managing crowds. Several sources indicate that Bengaluru police had suggested to hold the event on Sunday to avoid traffic disruption and to allow more time for security and barricading arrangements.
This tragedy has cast a shadow over what should have been a joyous occasion for RCB and its fans. Gambhir's strong words serve as a reminder of the importance of responsibility and caution when organizing events that attract large crowds, underscoring the fundamental principle that human life is irreplaceable and must be protected above all else.
