New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday posed several tough questions to the Tamil Nadu government while hearing petitions related to the Karur stampede tragedy that claimed 41 lives, including children. The bench expressed concern over the state’s handling of post-mortems, permission for political roadshows, and the Madras High Court’s “improper” directives in the ongoing investigation.
A bench of Justices JK Maheshwari and NV Anjaria questioned how the Tamil Nadu government conducted post-mortems as early as 4 a.m., mere hours after the stampede. “You conducted post-mortems within four hours? How many post-mortem tables do you have? Two?” Justice Maheshwari asked sharply during the hearing.
The Supreme Court also sought explanations on why the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), founded by actor-politician Vijay, was granted permission to hold a roadshow in Karur on September 27, even as the AIADMK was denied permission for a similar event at the same location. The denial, according to the state, was due to an ongoing formulation of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for political gatherings at that time.
The bench further flagged “procedural impropriety” in the Madras High Court’s handling of the case, noting that while the Madurai Bench had already rejected a plea seeking a CBI probe, the Chennai Bench subsequently directed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe — a conflicting development.
Vijay, in his plea before the Supreme Court, challenged the Chennai Bench’s order, stating it was passed without granting him a hearing and contained politically damaging observations. The TVK leader has sought an independent probe but not a CBI investigation into the incident.
The apex court questioned why the petition seeking SOP guidelines for roadshows was entertained by the principal Chennai Bench, despite Karur falling under the jurisdiction of the Madurai Bench, which had already adjudicated a similar matter.
Vijay’s counsel told the court that the actor was asked by Tamil Nadu Police to leave the site during the chaos, as his presence might have aggravated the situation. “How can it be seen as abandoning the place?” the lawyer asked.
Responding to the post-mortem allegations, senior advocate Wilson, appearing for the Tamil Nadu government, said that the incident had triggered panic among families demanding the immediate return of bodies, prompting expedited procedures. “The district collector gave permission. After the incident, the Chief Minister flew to Karur where families were pleading. Doctors from nearby districts were called to assist,” he said, adding that the government would verify details and file an affidavit.
The Supreme Court directed the Tamil Nadu government to file a detailed affidavit addressing all allegations, including claims of improper post-mortems, and to respond on whether the case warranted a CBI investigation.
One of the petitioners, who lost his fiancée and sister in the stampede, alleged sabotage and said ambulances bearing the name “Senthil Balaji” were already present at the venue before the incident. He also noted that no police personnel were injured during the chaos.
The next hearing is expected after the Tamil Nadu government files its comprehensive reply.
Supreme Court Questions Tamil Nadu Govt Over 4 AM Post-Mortems In Karur Stampede
