New Ban Imposed On RCB Fans Hours Before IPL Final – IPL 2026 Final: Bengaluru Police Impose Strict Bans on RCB Fans

The stage is set for an epic showdown as the defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) prepare to lock horns with Gujarat Titans (GT) in the highly anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 final on Sunday, May 31. While cricket excitement has reached an absolute crescendo across Bengaluru, the authorities are leaving nothing to chance. Bengaluru Police have officially issued a strict public advisory and imposed several crucial bans to maintain order and ensure public safety during and after the monumental clash.

This stringent advisory comes in anticipation of massive public gatherings throughout the city of Bengaluru, particularly if the home franchise manages to secure its second consecutive IPL trophy. With memories of past events fresh in the minds of administrative officials, the police are prioritizing civilian safety above all else, urging fans to temper their excitement with discipline.

The Finalists: RCB and GT’s Road to the IPL 2026 Final

Royal Challengers Bengaluru entered the IPL 2026 season bearing the heavy tag of defending champions. Throughout the tournament, they played with the authority of champions, putting on a dominant display to top the league standings. RCB booked their direct berth in the final after a clinical and commanding performance in Qualifier 1.

In that crucial Qualifier 1 fixture, RCB’s batting powerhouse dismantled the opposition, registering a record-breaking total of 254/5 against Gujarat Titans. The bowlers then complemented the batters’ efforts perfectly, restricting GT’s lineup and securing a massive 92-run victory to march straight into the final.

However, Gujarat Titans, under the astute leadership of captain Shubman Gill, refused to back down. Having lost the first qualifier to RCB, they earned a second chance to reach the ultimate match through Qualifier 2. Facing a formidable Rajasthan Royals (RR) team, GT showcased their resilience in a high-octane encounter.

Rajasthan Royals set a daunting target, posting 214/6 on the scoreboard, powered by an incredible, explosive knock of 96 runs off just 47 balls by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Undeterred by the massive chase, Gujarat Titans responded with absolute class. Skipper Shubman Gill led the charge with a spectacular century, scoring 104 runs off 53 deliveries. He was ably supported by Sai Sudharsan, who played a stellar knock of 58 off 32 balls. Together, their sensational 167-run opening partnership ensured GT chased down the target with eight balls to spare, sealing their place in their third IPL final in five seasons.

Bengaluru Police Announce Strict Restrictions and Public Bans

To avoid any chaotic situations in the tech hub, the Bengaluru Police have made a strong appeal to citizens to uphold peace, law, and order. According to the detailed advisory, impromptu public celebrations on roads, inside parks, and in other open public spaces following the final match’s conclusion have been highly discouraged.

Crucially, the police have placed a ban on the unauthorized installation of LED walls or giant screens. Establishments are not permitted to set up public match screenings unless they have obtained official prior permission from the relevant administrative departments. Furthermore, existing screens at commercial venues must not be positioned in a manner that allows crowds to gather on public roads or open pavements.

The authorities issued specific directions stating that screens should not be placed outside of malls, pubs, restaurants, or other commercial establishments if they encourage viewing from external roads. This measure is intended to prevent traffic congestion and crowd build-up on busy streets.

In addition to screening restrictions, the advisory strictly prohibits the following activities:

• Organizing bike rallies or group stunt riding on public roads.
• Over-speeding and reckless driving across city streets.
• Unnecessary honking and creating road blockades that halt traffic.
• Bursting firecrackers in crowded residential and commercial areas.
• Using dangerous materials that could jeopardize public safety.
• Consuming alcohol in public places, which will attract immediate legal action.
• Engaging in any rowdy behavior that could lead to physical altercations or fights.

The Grim Backstory: What Happened After RCB’s IPL 2025 Win?

These severe guidelines and proactive policing measures are directly informed by the tragic events that unfolded in Bengaluru following the IPL 2025 final. When RCB lifted their maiden IPL trophy last year, the city erupted in unprecedented celebrations that quickly spiraled out of control.

An overwhelming crowd, estimated between 2 to 3 lakh passionate fans, converged around the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium to celebrate the historic victory. The sheer volume of people in a confined space led to a catastrophic stampede. Tragically, the incident resulted in the loss of 11 lives, while more than 50 other fans suffered varying degrees of injuries.

Determined to prevent a recurrence of such a tragedy, the Bengaluru Police are taking every possible precaution ahead of the IPL 2026 final. As the highly anticipated match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans draws closer, the police department urges all cricket enthusiasts to celebrate responsibly and remember that public safety remains paramount.