Karur, Tamil Nadu, Sept 28:
A tragic stampede at a rally of Tamil Nadu Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay in Karur has claimed 39 lives, with dozens more injured. The incident occurred during a political event attended by an unexpectedly large crowd.
Tragic Toll and Injuries
Death toll: 39 (12 men, 16 women, 10 children – 5 boys, 5 girls)
Injured: 51 currently receiving treatment in intensive care units
Postmortems were conducted at the Government Medical College and Hospital, and bodies have now been handed over to their families.
CM MK Stalin Visits Karur
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin arrived in Karur last night to pay tribute to the deceased and meet their families.
“So far, 39 people have died. In the history of our state, such a large number of people have lost their lives at an event organized by a political party. Such a tragedy should never happen again,” CM Stalin said.
Families of the deceased will receive ₹10 lakh compensation, while the injured will get ₹1 lakh.
A one-member inquiry commission, headed by a retired High Court judge, has been formed to investigate the incident.
Police and Administrative Response
Additional DGP (Law & Order) S. Davidson Devasirvatham confirmed a case has been registered, and a preliminary investigation is underway.
DGP in-charge G. Venkataraman noted that permission for the gathering was granted from 3 pm to 10 pm, but the crowd began gathering at 11 am.
The expected turnout was around 10,000, but nearly 27,000 people assembled. Over 500 police officers were deployed.
A case has been filed against TVK Karur West District Secretary VP Mathiazhagan under four sections for violating event norms.
Political Leaders Respond
Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin visited the mortuary to meet victims’ families.
BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan expressed condolences and offered support, emphasizing the need for practical assistance rather than sensationalism.
Union Home Minister contacted the CM and offered central assistance.
Key Takeaways
The stampede highlights the importance of crowd management at political events.
The investigation and commission will determine the exact causes of the tragedy.
Public and political leaders are focusing on supporting victims’ families and preventing similar incidents in the future.
✅ In summary: The Karur stampede during actor Vijay’s rally is one of the deadliest political event tragedies in Tamil Nadu’s history. Chief Minister MK Stalin and other leaders have pledged support to victims’ families, while authorities begin a detailed investigation.
