We should not have come here, rue friends of victims

Bengaluru: Friends of the victims, mostly classmates and co-workers, expressed deep regret over attending the RCB title celebrations at Chinnaswamy Stadium. 

They blamed poor arrangements, a shortage of police personnel, and an unruly crowd for the stampede. Many mourned inconsolably, grieving the loss of loved ones during what was meant to be a joyous outing.

"We should not have come here,” said the friends of 25-year-old Sahana, one of the 11 who lost their lives. Their voices trembled with despair as they stood outside Vydehi Hospital — shattered and grieving.

At the hospital, Sahana’s friends gathered to console one another, nursing their own injuries from the chaos.

Originally from Kolar, Sahana had lived and worked in Bengaluru for three years, employed at a German-based firm. She had joined the victory parade with friends and colleagues, but was separated in the crowd surge.

Veena, one of the injured, recalled, “I just wanted a glimpse of the players. I did not expect the crowd to be this massive. I thought only those with passes could enter the stadium. But outside, it was total chaos — everyone was trying to get in.”