The Karnataka cabinet has given a green signal to conduct the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The approval came following the recommendation from a govt-appointed expert committee.
State’s Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar said that the recommendations of the Justice John Michael D'Cunha Report will be implemented, with strict adherence to norms on ticketing, crowd regulation, and stadium access.
"Good News for Cricket Lovers of Bengaluru & Karnataka. In the interest of the sport and its fans, the Cabinet today has taken an important decision to permit the conduct of IPL matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium, while keeping public safety paramount. The recommendations of the Justice John Michael D'Cunha Report will be implemented, with strict adherence to norms on ticketing, crowd regulation, and stadium access. With responsibility and accountability, we move forward," Shivakumar posted on his ‘X’ account.
Shivakumar, a lifetime member of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), emphasised that public safety would remain the top priority.
Since June 2025, the M Chinnaswamy Stadium remained under a suspension of play following a tragic stampede during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) IPL title celebrations. The incident, which resulted in 11 deaths and numerous injuries, has led to a total freeze on cricket at the venue. Due to ongoing safety concerns and infrastructure audits, the stadium has been forced to forfeit hosting rights for several high-profile events, including the ICC Women's ODI World Cup, which was relocated at short notice.
With the Cabinet's clearance, the onus now shifts to RCB, who hold the right to host the next IPL final as defending champions, to decide whether to play their home games at Chinnaswamy Stadium. The franchise has proposed installing AI-enabled surveillance systems to ensure efficient crowd management.
IPL 2026 will start on March 26 and conclude on May 31. Royal Challengers Bengaluru are the reigning IPL champions and will be hoping to defend their title this season.
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