Chennai: Tamil Nadu was hit by tragedy on Sunday when three children and seven adults died in a stampede-like situation during actor-turned-politician Vijay’s rally in Karur district.
Local medical officials say that the adults who died were supporters of Vijay’s political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). Witnesses reported that the victims had been waiting for more than six hours before the event started. The throng is said to have rushed forward after Vijay arrived late, causing havoc.
Officials verified that many others were hurt and taken to local hospitals for treatment. Police teams were sent out to help with rescue efforts and restore order.
This is the first big disaster connected to a political event of the new TVK, and it has raised serious concerns about how crowds are managed and how safe people are at big events.
More investigations are going on, and officials say they are taking steps to make sure that those who go to next rallies are safe.