Daijiworld Media Network- Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Aug 30: Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have announced financial assistance of Rs 25 lac each to the families of 11 victims who lost their lives in the tragic stampede at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium during the team’s victory celebrations on June 4.

The franchise, in its statement, said the support was being extended under its newly launched initiative ‘RCB Cares’.

“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, and our team unique. Their absence will echo in our memories forever. No amount of support can ever fill the space they’ve left behind. But as a first step, with deepest respect, RCB has extended Rs 25 lac each to their families — not just as financial aid, but as a promise of compassion, unity, and ongoing care,” the franchise posted on social media.

The team further added that the initiative marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to “meaningful action” in memory of the deceased, ensuring that every step taken reflects the expectations and emotions of fans.

The tragedy unfolded a day after RCB ended their 18-year title drought by defeating Punjab Kings in the IPL final. Over two lac fans thronged the stadium for the felicitation ceremony and open bus parade, overwhelming the venue’s 32,000-capacity. The resulting chaos led to a stampede at the gates, leaving 11 dead — all under the age of 40 — and over 50 injured.

Following the incident, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had announced an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lac to the kin of the deceased. RCB too had earlier declared an immediate relief of Rs 10 lac to each of the families as a gesture of solidarity.

The latest announcement of Rs 25 lac per family, under RCB Cares, is seen as a major step towards supporting the bereaved families and honouring the memory of those who lost their lives in the unfortunate incident.