
Bengaluru, January 19, 2026: Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Sunday stated that permission for hosting cricket matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium has been granted conditionally, requiring strict adherence to prescribed safety norms.
Speaking to reporters, Parameshwara said a high-level committee, set up based on the recommendations of the Justice John Michael Cunha Committee, had conducted a detailed inspection of the stadium.
“Based on the committee’s report, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has been granted permission to organize matches,” he said, adding that several specific conditions had been imposed on the association.
“All modifications and corrective measures recommended by the committee must be completed within the stipulated timeframe. The KSCA has already begun work and has provided a written assurance that all necessary changes will be implemented,” he noted.
Reiterating that the approval is conditional, Parameshwara said the stadium will be inspected again before any match takes place.
He also mentioned that a separate committee, led by Greater Bengaluru Authority Chief Commissioner M. Maheshwar Rao, had assessed the overall condition of the stadium, and its report was taken into consideration.
“The matter was thoroughly discussed in the Cabinet. Decisions have been made regarding short-term and long-term measures. Since IPL matches are scheduled for March, all short-term conditions must be met before then. Permission has been granted on this basis,” the minister said.
Parameshwara emphasized that the government is relying on the assurances given by the KSCA and confirmed that another inspection will be conducted to ensure full compliance.
Cricket matches at the Chinnaswamy Stadium were suspended following a stampede during Royal Challengers Bangalore’s IPL title celebrations last June, which claimed 13 lives.