Police arrest top RCB official, 3 others in stampede case; 2 Karnataka cricket officials absconding

Bengaluru police have made significant progress in their investigation into the tragic stampede at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Wednesday, which claimed the lives of 11 jubilant Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) fans. Four individuals have been arrested, including a key marketing official from the IPL franchise itself, as authorities intensify their crackdown on those responsible for the fatal oversight. The arrests come amidst mounting pressure and public outcry for accountability following the devastating incident.

Nikhil Sosale, a top marketing executive with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, was apprehended at the Kempegowda International Airport while reportedly attempting to depart the city. His arrest underscores the police's determination to probe all aspects of the event's organization, including the role of the franchise. The celebration, intended to mark RCB's long-awaited IPL victory, turned into a nightmare when an estimated 300,000 people converged on a stadium with a capacity of just 35,000, leading to severe overcrowding and chaos.

In addition to Sosale, three other individuals associated with DNA, the event management company contracted for the celebration, have also been taken into custody. These arrests point towards a focus on the logistical and crowd management failures that contributed to the stampede. Initial reports and a police FIR suggest that despite warnings about potential risks and a lack of proper permissions, organizers proceeded with the event, which included the distribution of free passes, exacerbating the crowd influx.

The investigation has also cast a shadow over the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA). Its secretary, Shankar, and treasurer, Jayram, are currently absconding. Police visited their residences but were unable to locate them, indicating a possible attempt to evade questioning. The KSCA, as the custodians of the stadium and joint organizers with DNA Networks, faces serious allegations of negligence and a failure to ensure public safety.