A day after a tragic stampede at a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, left 39 people dead and over 100 injured, security has been significantly increased at the Chennai residence of actor and party chief Vijay.
Government sources stated that the heightened security measure was taken as “people’s anger may turn” towards the actor-politician following one of the state’s worst political tragedies in recent history.
The stampede, which occurred on Saturday evening, saw thousands of people—including women and children—surge toward Vijay as he addressed them from atop his campaign vehicle. The overcrowding, compounded by heat, dehydration, and a possible crowd panic after a missing child announcement and a temporary power cut, led to the devastating crush.
Police Case and Party Allegations
Following the incident, Karur District Police filed separate First Information Reports (FIRs) against Anand, the TVK’s general secretary, and Nirmal Kumar, the joint general secretary, launching an investigation into the role of party functionaries in the tragedy.
The rally itself saw chaotic scenes, with visuals showing the actor halting his speech to throw water bottles to fainting supporters and calling for police help. TVK functionaries, however, have alleged that the opposition sent empty ambulances to the rally site, claiming it was an attempt to disrupt the event. Officials have confirmed that no patients were in those vehicles.
Chief Minister Orders Judicial Probe
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed deep sorrow over the incident, which he described as one of the state’s worst tragedies in recent times. During a press briefing early on Sunday, he announced the appointment of a one-member Commission of Inquiry, led by retired High Court Judge Aruna Jagadeesan, to investigate the incident and submit a comprehensive report.
The Chief Minister has also announced an ex-gratia of ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased and ₹1 lakh for those undergoing treatment. CM Stalin personally visited Karur late on Saturday night to meet with the injured in the Government Medical College and Hospital and console the families of the victims.
Vijay Expresses Grief as Concerns Mount
Vijay, one of Tamil cinema’s most bankable stars, launched the TVK in 2024 and has been campaigning heavily ahead of the state elections scheduled for early 2026.
“My heart is shattered; I am in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow,” Vijay wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “I express my deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for a speedy recovery for those who are undergoing treatment in the hospital.”
The tragedy has brought fresh scrutiny to the lack of crowd control and safety protocols at the actor’s massive political gatherings. This is not the first safety concern at a TVK event, as previous rallies have also been marred by overcrowding and incidents. Despite police-imposed restrictions, the immense public turnout has repeatedly overwhelmed local infrastructure, leading to a disaster that has shaken the state’s political landscape.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences, stating on X, “The unfortunate incident during a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, is deeply saddening.” Union Home Minister Amit Shah has reportedly spoken to Governor R.N. Ravi and CM Stalin, assuring all possible central assistance.