Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar asserted on Sunday that the state government will not allow IPL matches to be shifted away from the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, despite recent concerns following the tragic incident during the RCB victory celebrations.
Speaking to reporters after casting his vote in the KSCA elections, Shivakumar said that the government views the matter as one of Karnataka’s prestige.
“We will not allow IPL matches to be relocated from Chinnaswamy Stadium. IPL games will continue to be held here, and we will take all necessary steps to ensure that,”
he said.
Responding to questions on whether major tournaments, including the IPL, could be moved after the accident, the DyCM reiterated that the government would protect Bengaluru’s standing as a premier cricketing venue.
On the possibility of Bengaluru hosting Women’s T20 World Cup matches, he added:
“Any upcoming international fixtures will be supported. We will provide all permissions required for Bengaluru to host such events.”
Shivakumar also spoke about his connection with the Karnataka State Cricket Association:
“I have been a KSCA member from a very young age. Nagraj gave me the membership, and his son was my classmate. I have known Brijesh Patel, Anil Kumble, Prasanna, and many others for years. I have exercised my vote for the candidates I trust.”
Addressing stadium safety concerns, he said the government would take strict measures to ensure tragedies do not repeat:
“We will safeguard the stadium’s reputation. Crowd management will be strengthened within the legal framework. Along with this, we are also planning for an alternative large stadium in Bengaluru.”
The DyCM emphasized that Chinnaswamy Stadium will remain the primary venue for major cricket tournaments in Karnataka.
