India's 1983 World Cup-winning member Madan Lal has lashed out at Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Karnataka state government for holding the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise's victory celebrations without proper management which led stampede that claimed 11 lives and left many injured.
As the crowd flocked to the stadium to see their heroes who ended the 18-year wait for the trophy, the crowd became too much for the police and authorities to handle. While Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah announced Rs 10 lakh compensation each for deceased's families, Lal wants them to sue the RCB and the governement for Rs 100 crore.
"People will not forget this —or Virat Kohli. While people were dying outside, there was celebration inside. It's truly shocking and disheartening. The families of the deceased should consider suing RCB and the state government for ₹100 crore for this tragic mishap...BCCI is also shirking responsibility," the former pace-bowling all-rounder told the IANS.
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RCB's statement on tragedy during victory celebrations
While stampede led to chaos outside the stadium, players unaware of the situation, continued to celebrate inside the stadium. After a few hours of the unfortunate incident during victory celebrations, RCB released a statement.
"We are deeply anguished by the unfortunate incidents that have come to light through media reports regarding public gatherings all over Bengaluru in anticipation of the team’s arrival this afternoon. The safety and well-being of everyone is of utmost importance to us," the franchise said.
"RCB mourns the tragic loss of lives and extend our heartfelt condolences to the affected families.
"Immediately upon being made aware of the situation, we promptly amended our program, and followed, the guidance and advice of the local administration.
"We urge all our supporters to please stay safe."
Madan Lal's WC-winning teammate slams organisers too
Former wicketkeeper-batter slammed RCB organisers for holding the event in a hurry.
"On that count I suppose if RCB waited for 17 (18) years to become champions and organisers whosoever it may be could have waited for a while for things to settle down and then organise a show to felicitate these great heroes of RCB," he told India Today.