Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister Confirms IPL Matches Will Remain at Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium

Bengaluru:

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has firmly stated that IPL matches will continue to be hosted at Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Karnataka's pride. After participating in the KSCA elections, he told reporters: "As a cricket enthusiast, I will not permit IPL matches to be relocated from here. We will ensure they remain in Bengaluru."

His statement comes amid prolonged uncertainty regarding cricket's return to Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Cricket activities at the stadium were suspended following a tragic stampede earlier this year that resulted in 11 fatalities and multiple injuries during RCB's victory celebrations, raising significant concerns about spectator safety and venue preparedness.

Reinforcing his dedication to Bengaluru's cricket heritage, Shivakumar remarked: "Brijesh Patel, Anil Kumble, EAS Prasanna are all well-known to me. I have cast my vote. I'm passionate about cricket."

He emphasized that future events should prevent such tragedies while continuing to host matches at KSCA "while safeguarding the state's pride."

"We will accomplish this by adhering to regulations and implementing proper crowd management. We want this venue to achieve greater prominence. We also plan to construct an alternative stadium. Under no circumstances will we allow future IPL matches to be moved away from Bengaluru," he added.

Earlier this year, a stampede occurred outside Chinnaswamy Stadium when thousands attempted to enter during RCB's post-victory celebrations.

The excessive crowding led to chaos, casualties, injuries, and widespread criticism of crowd control and security protocols, prompting officials to reconsider holding large events at the venue until safety enhancements could be guaranteed.

The 2025 Karnataka State Cricket Association election is highly competitive, particularly for the presidential position between former India bowler Venkatesh Prasad and media director KN Shanth Kumar.