In late September 2025, a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, turned tragic when a massive stampede broke out, leaving at least 39 people dead, including nine children, and over 50 injured. The rally, organized by actor-politician Vijay’s party (TVK), drew a crowd far exceeding expectations.
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| In Karur on Saturday, a public address by TVK chief Vijay |
The sequence of events leading to disaster reveals a mix of planning failures and unpredictable crowd dynamics. First, Vijay arrived hours late, shifting the timetable and creating tension among attendees. As the wait lengthened under the hot evening sky—without adequate water, shade, or food—people grew restless. Eyewitnesses told reporters that even before the rally began, many were fainting or gasping for space.
When Vijay finally appeared atop his campaign vehicle, hundreds surged forward to catch a glimpse. In that push, people lost balance, some collapsed, and the pressure cascaded—victims got trampled in the crush. Rescue became difficult, as ambulances could not penetrate the dense crowd, delaying urgent medical help.
The authorities and police now face intense scrutiny. The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has already ordered a Commission of Inquiry headed by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan to examine the causes. Local police officials contend that crowd estimates were too low, and that security arrangements were insufficient for such turnout.
In statements following the tragic day, Vijay expressed sorrow, calling the event “deeply painful.” Meanwhile, the state government declared ex gratia relief: ₹10 lakh to the families of the deceased, and ₹1 lakh to those injured.
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