In a major reassurance for cricket fans in Karnataka, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has firmly stated that Bengaluru's iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium will continue to host Indian Premier League (IPL) matches. This announcement comes after significant uncertainty regarding the venue's future following a tragic stampede on June 4.
Stampede Incident and Government's Firm Assurance
The uncertainty stemmed from a stampede that occurred at the stadium when massive crowds gathered to celebrate Royal Challengers Bangalore's victory in the IPL 2025 final. The incident raised serious questions about crowd management and safety protocols at the historic ground.
However, Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, speaking to reporters after casting his vote in the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) presidential election, put all doubts to rest. He declared that the state government has no intention of moving the prestigious T20 league away from its Bengaluru home.
"I'm a cricket lover," Shivakumar said, emphasizing his personal commitment to the sport. "We will ensure that the accident in Karnataka does not happen again and hold cricket events at Chinnaswamy Stadium in a manner that upholds the honour of Bengaluru."
Future Plans: Enhanced Safety and a New Stadium
Shivakumar outlined a two-pronged approach to move forward. First, he confirmed that the KSCA would operate the venue in strict accordance with all regulations, implementing improved crowd-handling systems to prevent any repeat of the June 4 tragedy. The focus is squarely on enhancing safety measures for all future events.
Second, in a significant revelation, the Deputy CM announced that a larger cricket stadium is also planned for the future. This indicates long-term planning to accommodate the growing fanbase and major sporting events in the state capital, while potentially alleviating pressure on the existing facility.
Reiterating the government's unwavering stance, Shivakumar asserted, "We will not shift the IPL elsewhere and will continue to hold it here at Chinnaswamy Stadium. This is the pride of Bengaluru and Karnataka, which we will retain." This statement underscores the cultural and sporting significance of the venue to the city and the state.
Commitment to Women's Cricket
Going beyond the immediate issue of the IPL venue, Shivakumar also addressed the growth of women's cricket. Responding to a query, he affirmed that the government would actively work to provide equal opportunities for female players. This pledge aligns with the rising profile of women's cricket in India and suggests institutional support for its development in Karnataka.
The Deputy Chief Minister's comprehensive statements have provided much-needed clarity and confidence. They signal a commitment to learning from past mistakes, upgrading infrastructure, and ensuring that Bengaluru remains a premier destination for world-class cricket, all while fostering inclusivity in the sport.
