Tragedy struck at a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, when a stampede claimed 40 lives and injured many others. The chaos unfolded Saturday evening during an event for actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party, drawing a massive crowd that turned overwhelming.
Karnataka Minister Sharan Prakash called the Karur stampede an “unfortunate incident” on Sunday, sharing his grief with . “This is heartbreaking,” he said. “The government needs to roll out standard operating procedures and clear guidelines for big events like this to stop such tragedies in the future.”
Karur Collector M. Thangavel confirmed the death toll at 40 during a press briefing alongside ADGP (Law and Order) S. Davidson Devasirvatham. “We’ve lost 40 people so far,” Thangavel said. Chief Minister MK Stalin rushed to the scene late Saturday night. He visited the Government Medical College and Hospital in Karur, checked on the injured, and honored those who died. Stalin ordered top-notch medical care right away and boosted hospital resources with extra beds and emergency teams.
The Tamil Nadu government stepped up quickly with relief measures. Families of the deceased will get Rs 10 lakh each, while injured victims receive Rs 1 lakh for treatment. A help desk now operates at the hospital to support those affected, and officials are working hard to prevent more losses.
The rally turned deadly when the huge turnout led to overcrowding and panic. Many in the crowd fainted amid the crush, and victims rushed to nearby hospitals for urgent help.
Stalin also launched a one-member Commission of Inquiry, led by retired High Court Judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan. The panel will dig deep into what went wrong and report back to the government soon.
TVK leader Vijay, who organized the rally, pledged Rs 20 lakh to each bereaved family and Rs 2 lakh for the injured, showing his commitment to those hit hardest.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi echoed the sorrow nationwide. From the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF), he announced Rs 2 lakh for the next of kin of each person killed in the Karur stampede. Injured survivors will get Rs 50,000 each. The PMO shared the news on X, highlighting the nation’s support for Tamil Nadu.
As investigations continue, the focus stays on healing the community and learning from this devastating Karur stampede to keep future events safe.
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