Karur: A political rally led by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) founder and popular actor Vijay turned tragic in Karur on Saturday evening, as a stampede claimed the lives of at least 39 people, including women and children. The incident has left the state in mourning and triggered a high-level inquiry.
Thousands had gathered at the rally grounds since early Saturday afternoon, hoping to see the actor-turned-politician in person. The crowd, reportedly numbering in the tens of thousands, had swelled well beyond expected levels by the time Vijay arrived in the evening.
According to local authorities, the stampede began around 7:30 PM, shortly after Vijay began his address atop a campaign vehicle. The situation escalated quickly as people at the rear surged forward, leading to panic and chaos.
Witnesses described a horrifying scene as several individuals were seen collapsing and struggling to breathe. Vijay reportedly paused his speech midway after his supporters alerted him that people were fainting and being trampled. Emergency responders and volunteers struggled to restore order and assist the injured.
Officials Link Overcrowding to Late Start
Preliminary findings suggest that Vijay’s delayed arrival contributed to rising tensions and crowd movement. “People had been waiting in the heat for hours. The late start led to restlessness, and the crowd’s size became difficult to manage,” said a senior police officer on the scene.
Multiple ambulances were dispatched to the area, and the injured were transported to local hospitals. Some are said to be in critical condition.
State Government Responds: Inquiry and Compensation Announced
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin called an emergency meeting at the Secretariat late Saturday night to assess the situation. In a public statement, the Chief Minister announced a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the incident thoroughly and determine lapses in crowd management and event planning.
He also declared an ex gratia of ₹10 lakh to the families of each deceased victim. “This is a heartbreaking incident. We will ensure accountability and support those who have suffered this unimaginable loss,” Stalin said.
National Leaders Express Condolences
Expressions of sympathy have poured in from across the political spectrum.
YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) President Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy described the incident as “extremely distressing.” In an official party statement, Reddy said: “My thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost their loved ones. I extend my deepest condolences in this hour of pain.”
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also shared his sorrow, posting on social media platform X: “Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of lives in the Karur stampede. My heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and prayers for the injured.”
Investigation Underway
Security personnel and administrative officials remained at the site through the night, ensuring medical aid and assistance for families trying to locate missing relatives. Authorities have begun collecting video footage and witness statements to piece together the sequence of events.
As Tamil Nadu reels from this sudden disaster, questions are being raised about safety protocols and the preparedness of organizers at large-scale political events. Meanwhile, fans and followers of Vijay have flooded social media with messages of grief, shock, and solidarity.
