TVK Chief Vijay Meets Karur Stampede Victims’ Families a Month After Tragedy

CHENNAI: A month after the stampede at a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally in Karur claimed 41 lives, actor and party president Vijay on Monday met with the families of the victims at a private resort in Mamallapuram near Chennai.

In a closed-door interaction held a month to the day after the September 27 tragedy, approximately 37 families, comprising over 230 members, were brought by the party from Karur to the Poonjeri resort. The party cited security and logistical concerns for bringing the families to Chennai, rather than the actor-politician visiting them in Karur, a decision that drew some prior criticism.

Condolences and Pledge of Ongoing Support

During the meeting, which was not open to the media, Mr. Vijay reportedly met each family individually to offer condolences and express his deep regret over the tragic incident.

“You can consider me one among your family members. I share your pain and will stand by you in every way possible,” Vijay was quoted as telling the grieving relatives.

Reports indicate that Vijay actively sought details regarding the families’ financial conditions, debts, and children’s education, assuring them of continued additional financial assistance beyond the ₹20 lakh ex-gratia compensation already disbursed by the party earlier this month. The compensation amount was previously announced, along with ₹2 lakh for the injured.

The former Supreme Court judge Ajay Rastogi-led committee continues to monitor the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the stampede incident.