Tamil Nadu’s political scene turned tragic on Saturday when a stampede broke out at a public rally for actor-turned-politician Vijay in Karur, claiming 38 lives, including eight children and 16 women. The incident at the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) event has left families devastated and prompted quick action from state leaders.
Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin shared his deep grief on X, calling the news of the crowd crush in Karur “heartbreaking.” He offered condolences to the families of those who died and stressed that injured people, including those who fainted in the chaos, are getting urgent care at Karur Government Hospital on Chief Minister’s orders. “We need everyone’s help to support the government’s efforts and the medical teams right now,” he added in his post.
A survivor spoke to reporters about his family’s nightmare, painting a vivid picture of the pain. “My brother lost his two sons in this—one died, and we still don’t know where the younger one is,” he said, his voice breaking. “My brother’s wife is fighting for her life in the ICU, and my own son’s eye is badly hurt. I just don’t know what to do next.” Stories like this highlight the human cost of the Tamil Nadu stampede, shaking communities across the state.
Vijay, the TVK chief and rally organizer, also posted on X, saying his “heart is shattered” by the loss. He sent his deepest sympathies to the victims’ families and prayed for a fast recovery for the injured. “This unbearable pain can’t be put into words,” he wrote, as news of the Karur rally tragedy spread quickly.
Chief Minister MK Stalin stepped in swiftly, announcing Rs 10 lakh compensation for each family of the 36 confirmed deaths in the stampede. He also pledged Rs 1 lakh to help those receiving hospital treatment. To get to the bottom of what went wrong, Stalin set up a one-member inquiry commission led by retired High Court Judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan. In his statement, he called the loss “irreparable” and promised top-notch medical support for everyone hurt. “These precious lives gone have broken our hearts—my thoughts are with the grieving families,” Stalin said.
Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi weighed in from Delhi, posting condolences on X. “The stampede at the Karur political rally is deeply saddening,” he wrote. “My thoughts are with the families who’ve lost loved ones. I wish them strength and pray for quick healing for the injured.”
As investigations continue into the Karur stampede causes, Tamil Nadu officials urge calm and cooperation to prevent more heartbreak. The rally, meant to boost TVK’s momentum, has instead become a stark reminder of crowd safety challenges at big events.
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