Bengaluru: Star cricketer Virat Kohli has found himself at the center of controversy following a tragic stampede during Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) IPL victory celebrations. A complaint has been filed against him at the Cubbon Park Police Station by social activist H.M. Venkatesh, alleging that Kohli’s role in the celebrations helped create a massive crowd, ultimately contributing to the disaster.
The complaint also accuses the Indian Premier League (IPL) of being a front for gambling rather than a true sporting event, claiming it encourages mass gatherings and irresponsible fan behavior. Venkatesh demanded that Kohli and his teammates be named in the FIR, blaming them for drawing the crowd that led to the fatal incident.
The Bengaluru Police confirmed that the complaint will be evaluated as part of the ongoing investigation into the tragedy.
In a related development, the Karnataka BJP has taken aim at the state leadership, filing police complaints against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar, and Home Minister G. Parameshwara.
According to BJP General Secretary P. Rajeev, the leaders attempted to politically capitalize on RCB’s win, misused their power, and failed in their responsibilities — leading to the stampede that claimed 11 lives near Chinnaswamy Stadium. The Home Minister was specifically accused of gross negligence and failure to ensure public safety during the celebrations.
The incident continues to spark political and public outrage, with investigations now expanding to include top political figures and cricketing icons.
