For Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans, the long wait might finally be over. In a major development, the Karnataka government has granted permission for IPL matches to return to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium for the 2026 season. The decision brings relief after months of uncertainty surrounding the iconic venue.
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar confirmed the news on X, saying, “In the interest of the sport and its fans, the Cabinet today has taken an important decision to permit the conduct of IPL matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium, while keeping public safety paramount.”
He added, “The recommendations of the Justice John Michael D’Cunha Report will be implemented, with strict adherence to norms on ticketing, crowd regulation, and stadium access. With responsibility and accountability, we move forward.”
The approval comes eight months after a heartbreaking incident. On June 4, 2025, just a day after Royal Challengers Bengaluru celebrated their first IPL title, a stampede near MG Road and Cubbon Road led to d*aths of 11 people. Around 2.5 lakh fans had gathered after the team announced a victory parade from Vidhana Soudha and a fan engagement event at the stadium.
Following the tragedy, the venue was declared unsafe and has not hosted a competitive match since. Even major events like the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup fixtures were shifted at the last moment.
With doubts over safety, RCB had reportedly explored alternatives, including the DY Patil Stadium as a temporary home.
Proposals to improve safety include installing AI-enabled surveillance cameras to manage crowds better. Now, with government clearance secured, the final decision lies with RCB — including whether to host the next IPL final at home as defending champions.
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