'Eight lakh people showed up': Karnataka Home Minister on fatal Bengaluru stampede

Eleven people died and nearly 50 were injured when the crowd outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium swelled and went uncontrollable turning the celebratory mood into a nightmare within moments.

"We estimated around one lakh people outside Vidhana Soudha and another 25,000 outside the stadium," Dr Parmeshwara said. "We had no idea the number would cross two-and-a-half lakh. In fact, Metro tickets sold were 8.7 lakh.

"Assuming most of them were RCB fans, around 8 lakh people showed up. We have never seen a turnout like this before for a cricket event," said Parmaeshwara as quoted by NDTV.

During a press conference this evening, Siddaramaiah, whose government is facing flak for alleged lack of proper arrangement, stated the administration did not expect the tragedy, as the stadium can accommodate 35,000 people.

"But the number of people who turned up is estimated to be two-three lakhs. We assumed there would be as many people as the stadium would accommodate or a bit more, but not as many as had actually turned up," Siddaramaiah said.

He announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the families of those who were killed in the stampede, and free treatment for the injured.

"I have ordered a magisterial inquiry into this tragedy. Appropriate action will be taken against the guilty. Instructions have been given to submit the investigation report within 15 days," he said.

Meanwhile, the Karnataka High Court took suo moto cognizance of the stampede case and the matter will be heard on Thursday.