Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has firmly dismissed any possibility of shifting future Indian Premier League (IPL) matches away from the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. This assurance comes in the wake of a stampede that occurred during victory celebrations for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru on June 4.
Commitment to Safety and Stadium Pride
Speaking to the media after casting his vote in the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) presidential election on Sunday, Shivakumar addressed the safety concerns head-on. The deputy chief minister, a self-proclaimed cricket lover, stated that his government would prioritize safety to prevent any repeat of the recent accident. He emphasized that the KSCA would operate the stadium strictly within the legal framework, implementing robust crowd management measures.
"We will not allow the IPL matches to be held elsewhere and will continue to hold them at Chinnaswamy Stadium," Shivakumar declared. He underscored the venue's significance, calling it "the pride of Bengaluru and Karnataka," a pride the state government is committed to retaining.
Plans for Infrastructure and Women's Cricket
Shivakumar outlined a dual vision for cricket infrastructure in the state. While committing to the development of the existing Chinnaswamy Stadium, he also revealed plans for a larger alternative stadium on the outskirts of the city. He confirmed that both venues would be utilized for international matches and IPL fixtures in the future.
His vision extends to women's cricket as well. The deputy CM affirmed that all upcoming women's matches scheduled for the Chinnaswamy Stadium would proceed as planned at the venue, ensuring equal opportunity and prominence for the women's game.
Personal Connection and Electoral Process
Shivakumar also shared his personal history with the KSCA, recalling how he acquired his membership decades ago. "When I was young, One Nagaraj gave me a membership for a mere Rs 2700. His son is my classmate," he recounted. He mentioned his familiarity with cricket legends like Brijesh Patel, Anil Kumble, and E A S Prasanna, stating he voted for his preferred candidates in the association election.
The government's immediate focus, however, remains on strengthening crowd control mechanisms. Shivakumar reiterated his commitment as a cricket fan to uphold the stadium's dignity and ensure spectator safety, learning from the recent disaster. This announcement provides clarity and reassurance to cricket fans in Karnataka as the state prepares to host the IPL 2026 mini-auction, scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi.
