Bengaluru, June 11, 2025 — The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday reserved its order on a petition filed by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) against the state government’s decision to restrict celebrations following their historic Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 victory.
Advocate General (AG) Shashikiran Shetty, representing the State, concluded his arguments by presenting a detailed timeline of events following RCB’s IPL triumph. The AG defended the government’s stance, citing concerns over law and order, traffic congestion, and public safety.
According to Shetty, the government received RCB’s request for a grand public celebration on May 27, a day after the team clinched their maiden IPL title. The request included plans for a victory parade and rally through central Bengaluru. However, multiple departments, including the city police, raised concerns about managing large crowds amid ongoing examinations and pre-monsoon civic work.
“The government’s decision was based on practical and administrative reasons. Public safety and civic order were paramount,” Shetty told the court. He added that alternative venues were suggested to the franchise to ensure the celebration could proceed without disrupting daily life.
Earlier, senior advocate Uday Holla, appearing for RCB, argued that the government’s refusal to grant permission for the event was “discriminatory” and violated the team’s fundamental rights. He pointed out that similar public gatherings — including political and religious events — had been permitted in the past with appropriate security measures.
“This celebration is not just a private affair but a matter of pride for millions of fans who have waited 17 years for this victory,” Holla said, urging the court to allow the franchise to hold the event as originally planned.
The case has sparked considerable public interest, with legal experts highlighting its broader implications for public events, freedom of expression, and administrative discretion. The court, led by Justice Krishna S. Dixit, observed that while the enthusiasm of fans is understandable, the authorities must balance it with public interest and safety.
“We must evaluate the legal limits within which such celebrations can be permitted,” Justice Dixit said during the hearing.
With both sides having concluded their arguments, the High Court reserved its order, which is expected to be pronounced in the coming days.
The outcome of the case could have a significant impact on how future sporting or cultural events are managed in the state, especially in urban areas like Bengaluru.
