In a significant development, the Karnataka government has granted conditional permission for Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium to host cricket matches once again, as of February 10, 2026. This marks the first positive step toward reopening the iconic venue since its suspension following a fatal stampede in June 2025.
The decision is crucial for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which aims to return to its home ground for the upcoming IPL season. However, a definitive verdict will follow a high-level review meeting scheduled for February 11, 2026.
Background: The 2025 Stampede
The stadium was declared unfit for hosting matches after a tragic incident on June 4, 2025, when celebrations for RCB’s maiden IPL title victory turned fatal. A stampede outside the stadium gates resulted in 11 fatalities and over 50 injuries. Official investigations cited severe overcrowding, mismanagement of free passes, and a lack of adequate crowd safety protocols as primary causes.
Subsequently, the Justice Michael D’Cunha Commission deemed the venue unsafe, leading to its exclusion from hosting any matches during the ongoing 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup.
Ongoing Safety Overhaul
The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) is now implementing 17 mandated safety upgrades. Key infrastructure changes include:
- Widening stadium gates to at least six feet.
- Creating single-level ground access.
- Developing large holding areas for improved crowd management.
Additionally, RCB has proposed an AI-based surveillance system, worth approximately ₹4.5 crore, involving 300–350 smart cameras for real-time crowd monitoring and threat detection.
A newly proposed state regulation—still under discussion—would hold event organizers accountable for accidents occurring outside the stadium premises, including roads and parking areas.
IPL 2026 and the Road Ahead
If final approval is secured, RCB plans to host the IPL 2026 opening ceremony at Chinnaswamy Stadium. The conclusive meeting on February 11, chaired by Home Minister G. Parameshwara, will determine match permissions and spectator capacity.
Given pending safety and legal clearances, RCB has simultaneously explored backup venues such as Raipur, Navi Mumbai, and Pune.
A Cautious Path Forward
The conditional approval signals a move toward normalcy for Bengaluru’s cricketing faithful. However, the emphasis remains squarely on stringent safety measures to prevent any future tragedies. The outcome of the February 11 review will ultimately decide whether RCB’s homecoming becomes a reality for IPL 2026.