Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has submitted a proposal to the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) regarding hosting matches at their home ground, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The franchise has proposed installing 300 to 350 AI (Artificial Intelligence)-based cameras to strengthen crowd control at the stadium. The entire project is estimated to cost approximately ₹4.5 crore, which RCB will bear. According to the franchise, these cameras will enable better monitoring of spectator movement. Real-time monitoring at entry and exit points will prevent trespassing and enable immediate action in case of an emergency. The franchise believes this will significantly strengthen fan security during matches. Last year, during the IPL trophy celebrations, a stampede outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium resulted in the death of 11 people. Following this incident, all cricketing activities at the stadium were suspended. The investigation report cited serious lapses in crowd management as a major cause of the accident, and RCB was held responsible for it. According to RCB, the proposed AI camera system will operate using video, audio, and text data. This system will detect any illegal entry, intrusion, or potential security threat in advance, allowing timely action to be taken. For this initiative, RCB has partnered with technology company StaQ, which has previously worked to strengthen public safety through automation and data-driven technologies. Matches may be held in Raipur or Pune. If the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium does not receive the necessary government approval for IPL 2026, RCB is considering holding its home matches in Raipur or Pune. According to IPL regulations, franchises are required to provide information about their home venues at least one month before the start of the IPL. IPL 2026 is expected to begin in late March. T20 World Cup matches not received The T20 World Cup is also scheduled to be held between February and March, but due to non-receipt of the required NOC, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium has not been able to host any match of this tournament. Earlier also BCCI had to shift some matches of Vijay Hazare Trophy and Women’s World Cup out of Bengaluru. 11 people died in stampede in Bengaluru After winning the IPL 2025 title, RCB had organised a trophy celebration at Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, but due to poor planning and lack of crowd control, the situation worsened. 11 people died in the stampede that took place during this time. A large number of people were injured. The Karnataka government’s report held RCB responsible for the accident. Kohli was also mentioned in it. The Karnataka government said that RCB had not taken any permission from the government for the victory parade organised at Chinnaswamy.
