The tragic stampede that unfolded during Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor-politician Vijay’s rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, has left 39 people dead and several others injured. The incident, caused by massive overcrowding, has elicited heartfelt condolences and urgent calls for action from prominent personalities in the state’s film and political spheres.
Kamal Haasan Expresses Profound Sorrow
Actor-politician Kamal Haasan was among those who expressed deep grief over the loss of innocent lives. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), he conveyed his shock and sorrow in a statement written in Tamil:
“My heart trembles. The news coming from Karur brings shock and sorrow. I am at a loss for words to express my deepest condolences to the innocent people who lost their lives trapped in the crowd congestion.”
Beyond offering condolences, Kamal Haasan pressed the state government to ensure immediate care and relief for the affected:
“I urge the Tamil Nadu government to ensure that those rescued from the congestion receive proper treatment and that those affected receive appropriate relief.”
Grief from the Film Fraternity: Vijay and Rajinikanth
The tragedy also drew emotional statements from both the host of the rally and another prominent cinema personality:
- Vijay: The TVK chief and actor, whose rally was the scene of the tragedy, issued a tweet expressing his immense pain. “My heart is shattered; I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital.”
- Rajinikanth: Superstar Rajinikanth also shared his grief on X: “The news of the loss of innocent lives in the incident that occurred in Karur shakes the heart and causes immense grief. My deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. Comfort to those who were injured. #Karur #Stampede.”
Chief Minister MK Stalin’s Urgent Response
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin held an urgent meeting of officials at the Secretariat immediately after receiving the news and mobilized state resources for rescue and treatment. He posted on X, outlining the initial steps taken:
“I have contacted former Minister @V_Senthilbalaji, Honourable Minister @Subramanian_Ma and the District Collector to provide immediate treatment to the public who have fainted and been admitted to the hospital due to the crowding.”
CM Stalin subsequently visited the Government Medical College and Hospital in Karur late Saturday night to personally meet the injured and console the bereaved families, demonstrating the seriousness with which the state government is treating the disaster.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The stampede occurred at Vijay’s rally in Karur due to a massive and chaotic crowd turnout. ANI sources confirmed that overcrowding at the venue led to panic, which triggered the stampede-like situation. The resulting crowd congestion caused several attendees to faint, and many were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment, marking a devastating day for the people of Tamil Nadu.