RCB Launches ‘RCB Cares’ for Fan Safety
RCB Cares unveils crowd safety, fan welfare initiatives.
In response to a tragic stampede that claimed 11 lives during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) IPL trophy celebrations earlier this year, the franchise launched ‘RCB Cares,’ a dedicated foundation aimed at revolutionizing fan safety and welfare. Announced on Monday, the initiative includes a comprehensive six-point plan to enhance crowd management and prevent future tragedies, developed in collaboration with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA).
The stampede at Chinnaswamy Stadium in June, triggered by a massive turnout fueled by RCB’s social media invitations, exposed critical lapses in crowd control. An inquiry held the franchise accountable for failing to secure necessary clearances and highlighted the police’s inability to manage the overwhelming crowd. In response, RCB has already provided Rs 25 lakh in compensation to the families of the victims and is now doubling down on systemic changes.
‘RCB Cares’ outlined its mission to “support, empower, and elevate our 12th Man Army through meaningful action.” The six-point agenda, pending government approval, includes: providing holistic support beyond financial aid; partnering with stadium authorities, BCCI, and KSCA to design robust crowd management protocols; implementing a fan-safety audit framework; and conducting annual training for on-ground staff in crowd management and emergency response. Additionally, RCB aims to empower local communities with opportunities, invest in independent crowd safety research, create in-stadia jobs, and establish permanent tributes to honor fan memories.
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“Fan safety is our priority,” an RCB spokesperson said. “We’re committed to ensuring such a tragedy never happens again.” The franchise plans to work closely with authorities to implement these measures, addressing the inquiry’s findings that pointed to inadequate planning and coordination.
The initiative has been welcomed by fans and stakeholders, who see it as a step toward safer, more inclusive sporting experiences. As ‘RCB Cares’ moves forward, it aims to set a benchmark for fan welfare in Indian sports, transforming the pain of the past into a safer future for cricket enthusiasts.
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