Karnataka Clears Return of Cricket to Chinnaswamy Stadium with Tightened Safety Measures

Belagavi, Dec 2025 : Cricket is set to return to Bengaluru’s iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, with the Karnataka government officially allowing matches to resume under enhanced safety protocols. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced the decision on Friday while addressing the media at the Circuit House in Belagavi.

Shivakumar, who also oversees the Bengaluru Development portfolio, said the government has permitted matches at the venue after a careful review of safety measures. “We’ve allowed cricket matches to be held at the stadium, taking necessary precautions to ensure safety and maintain Bengaluru’s reputation,” he stated.

He added that Home Minister G. Parameshwara would supervise all arrangements. Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) President Venkatesh Prasad and senior police officials will coordinate the finer details to ensure smooth and secure conduct of all upcoming fixtures.

According to official sources, the Karnataka cabinet gave its approval on Thursday night to host all pending and future cricket events at the stadium — including the 2026 IPL season. The decision followed extensive discussions during the cabinet meeting held in Belagavi.

The Home Department has now been tasked with implementing the recommendations of the Michael De Cunha committee report, which outlines a set of robust security and crowd-management protocols. The KSCA will work closely with the Home Department to finalise these measures. A high-level meeting chaired by the Home Minister is expected to conclude the operational plans soon.

The move marks a significant development as matches had been suspended following the tragic stampede on June 4, during an RCB victory celebration, which led to the deaths of 11 fans. The venue later missed hosting a scheduled women’s World Cup match due to security concerns, resulting in a prolonged halt to cricketing activities.

The latest announcement comes after newly-elected KSCA President and former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad, along with other office-bearers, met Deputy CM Shivakumar in Belagavi. They also met Chief Minister Siddaramaiah earlier and formally requested the government to restore cricket at the stadium.

Meanwhile, responding to questions about a dinner event he attended amid speculation of political camps within the Congress, Shivakumar dismissed the rumours. He clarified that he frequently attends lunch or dinner invitations from local residents and party workers as a gesture of goodwill. “They invite us with love — how can we refuse? It’s not an official banquet,” he said.

As state Congress chief, Shivakumar added that such informal gatherings with party families and supporters are common and part of maintaining healthy community relations.

Team Maverick.