In the latest development, Nikhil Sosale approached the Karnataka High Court to challenge his arrest relating to the stampede that happened outside Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium, as reported by Bar and Bench.
According to the reports, Sosale stated that the arrest was made based only on the directive of the Chief Minister before the police had even conducted a preliminary inquiry. This, Sosale has contended, was a violation of his right to freedom under Article 19 as well as of the principles of natural justice.
"It is clear from the timing of the Petitioner's arrest, which is evidently the result of an oral directive of the Hon'ble Chief Minister to arrest various RCB officials - that too, in the absence of any investigation whatsoever - that the Petitioner's arrest is motivated and an attempt to shift the blame of the tragedy to RCSPL and its officials," Sosale's petition states.
He has sought orders from the Court declaring his arrest as illegal and for releasing him from custody.
Who is Nikhil Sosale?
Nikhil Sosale is a key executive at RCB, overseeing the team’s marketing and revenue operations under Diageo India, the franchise’s parent company. Over the years, he has played a pivotal role in building the RCB brand into one of the most commercially successful franchises in the Indian Premier League.
Well-recognized within cricketing and corporate circles, Sosale was frequently seen attending IPL 2025 matches and events, often alongside star players and high-profile guests.
He notably garnered public attention after being spotted at several games seated next to Anushka Sharma, Bollywood actor and wife of RCB icon Virat Kohli, highlighting his close proximity to the team’s inner circle.
According to information available on his LinkedIn profile, Sosale is responsible for developing and executing RCB’s commercial strategies, brand positioning, and fan engagement campaigns. His efforts have been instrumental in driving RCB's off-field success, especially in merchandise, digital content, and sponsorship growth.
