Karur Stampede: Death Toll Hits 36 at Vijay Rally; Organizers Blamed for Lapses, Inquiry Ordered
– A judicial commission has been formed to probe the tragedy as Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin rushes to Karur and the Centre seeks a detailed report on the devastating incident.
Karur: The death toll from a horrific stampede at a political rally for actor Vijay’s Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party in Karur on Saturday night has tragically risen to 36, according to hospital authorities. The disaster has prompted a high-level government response, with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announcing a judicial inquiry and rushing to the site of the tragedy.
The incident occurred amidst an enormous crowd that had gathered for Vijay’s state-wide tour. As the event progressed, several people fainted in the crush and were rushed to Karur Medical College Hospital and other nearby private facilities. The situation quickly escalated into a deadly stampede.
In response to the catastrophe, CM Stalin has announced a compensation of ₹10 lakh to the families of each deceased person and ₹1 lakh for those injured. He has also appointed a commission of inquiry, to be headed by retired Judge Aruna Jagadeesan, to investigate the circumstances that led to the deadly crush.
“The news from Karur was concerning,” the Chief Minister said, confirming he had instructed Health Minister Ma. Subramanian, former Minister V. Senthilbalaji, and the District Collector to ensure immediate and comprehensive treatment for all victims. CM Stalin, who had initially planned to visit Sunday morning, revised his schedule to travel to Karur tonight.
Meanwhile, serious allegations of negligence have been leveled against the event organizers. A senior police official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that TVK functionaries had refused a police suggestion to hold the meeting in a safer, open ground. “No arrangement was made for drinking water facilities. Many women came with their children… An open ground would have been much safer,” the officer stated.
Official documents show that TVK had sought permission expecting a crowd of only 10,000 people, despite the chosen location having a capacity for up to 60,000. The actual turnout was reportedly far greater, overwhelming the space and the arrangements.
A massive relief and rescue operation is underway, with additional police reinforcements and doctors from neighboring districts like Salem, Namakkal, Tiruchi, and Dindigul being rushed to Karur. The state government has assured that it will cover all medical expenses for the injured, including those in private hospitals.
The tragedy has sent shockwaves across the state, with figures like actor Rajinikanth expressing their grief. “The news of the loss of innocent lives… shakes the heart and causes immense grief. My deepest condolences to the families,” he posted on X.
