Karnataka Police have refused to permit the Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Delhi and Andhra Pradesh at Chinnaswamy Stadium, citing serious safety and crowd control issues. The decision came after a detailed inspection by Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar, officials from the Greater Bengaluru Authority, and the Fire Department, who identified significant gaps in venue infrastructure and emergency readiness. Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh addressed the media, stating that permission has not been granted for the match on Wednesday at the Chinnaswamy Stadium based on the inspection report.
The Bengaluru City Police Commissioner had previously issued a 17-point advisory outlining essential safety measures. An assessment was conducted to ensure compliance with these measures, and the findings were reported to the government. Sources within the police revealed concerns about the narrowness of the stadium gates, especially with the anticipation of Virat Kohli’s presence, making it difficult to manage large crowds.
Despite efforts by Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) President Venkatesh Prasad, who met with state Home Minister G. Parameshwara seeking an exception, authorities remained firm in their decision. A committee was formed by Parameshwara to evaluate the suitability of Chinnaswamy Stadium for hosting the Vijay Hazare Trophy cricket match. The KSCA requested permission to conduct the match without spectators, which was discussed in a meeting chaired by the minister with KSCA officials and senior police officers at Vidhana Soudha.
Notably, a tragic incident occurred near the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) celebrations on June 4, resulting in the loss of 11 lives.
