RCB Management Challenges Tribunal’s Observations Linking Social Media Posts to Stadium Stampede
The Karnataka High Court on Wednesday issued notices to the state government and IPS officer Vikash Kumar Vikash following a petition filed by Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL), owners of the IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
The company has contested certain observations made by the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), Bengaluru, in its July 1 order quashing Vikash’s suspension. The tribunal had prima facie held RCB’s social media promotions responsible for attracting an unmanageable crowd outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, leading to a fatal stampede that claimed 11 lives.
“Violation of Natural Justice”: RCB’s Stand
RCSPL argued that since it was not a party to the CAT proceedings, the tribunal’s adverse remarks were passed without hearing their side, violating principles of natural justice.
The petition stated:
The CAT overstepped its jurisdiction by making prejudicial observations that could influence ongoing investigations.
The findings were factually and legally flawed, as RCB was never given an opportunity to present its case.
The remarks could impact multiple probes, including a magisterial inquiry into the stampede.
Next Hearing on July 17
A division bench led by Justice S.G. Pandit has scheduled the next hearing for July 17.
On the same day, the High Court was also set to hear the state government’s challenge against the CAT’s decision to revoke Vikash’s suspension. However, the hearing was adjourned at the request of Advocate General Shashikiran Shetty.
The bench warned against further delays, noting that Vikash had assured he would not pursue contempt proceedings over the delayed reinstatement order.
Background of the Case
Vikash Kumar Vikash, an IPS officer, was suspended for alleged crowd management failures during an RCB promotional event on June 4.
The CAT overturned his suspension, but in its order, it indirectly blamed RCB’s aggressive social media campaigns for the unexpected crowd surge leading to the tragedy.
RCB maintains that the tribunal’s remarks were unfair, as the company was not heard before the observations were made.
The High Court’s intervention is now being closely watched, as the outcome could have broader implications for accountability in public safety incidents involving private entities.
