Common Sense, Not AI, Could Have Prevented RCB Stampede: K’taka IT Minister

In the aftermath of the tragic stampede linked to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) celebrations that left 11 dead, Karnataka IT Minister Priyank Kharge said the situation called for common sense, not artificial intelligence.

“I think common sense would have helped there rather than AI,” said Kharge, addressing the issue of crowd and traffic mismanagement in a video podcast with AIM. Taking accountability, he said, “On that particular day, I think all of us could have done better.”

Kharge said the responsibility was collective and not limited to one entity. He pointed out that BCCI, IPL officials, the government, the home department, the RCB team, and fans could have all performed better in their respective roles. 

Responding to whether AI could have helped manage the crowd flow, Kharge admitted the technology might have flagged high-density areas, but the ultimate call needed to be taken by people on the ground. “AI is going to tell us that there’s too much of a crowd and there needs management. The management has to happen physically,” he said. 

Calling it an unfortunate incident, Kharge said the government has accepted responsibility and is taking steps to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. 

“We’ve already owned up to it, and we’re working towards it. Probably we’ll be getting a crowd management bill as well, where the use of such technologies will be advocated,” the minister said. The Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) has held RCB “prima facie responsible” for the incident, citing inadequate preparation and sudden announcements.

Earlier this week, however, RCB has formally challenged this. The cricketing team argues that the CAT made these comments without giving the team a chance to present its side, violating principles of natural justice.