Chennai: A political rally led by actor-turned-politician Vijay in Karur ended in tragedy today, with at least 31 people, including children, feared dead in a stampede that broke out amid a surging crowd of tens of thousands. Police and hospital sources confirmed that the victims included both children and adult supporters of Vijay’s political outfit, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
Supporters had gathered as early as morning to catch a glimpse of their leader. Many had been waiting for more than six hours under the hot sun when Vijay’s convoy finally reached the venue. Witnesses said restlessness spread through the crowd as anticipation grew, and the rally ground, already packed beyond its capacity, turned chaotic once Vijay began addressing the people.
Amid the swelling numbers estimated at over 30,000 several attendees fainted due to suffocation and exhaustion. The confusion quickly escalated into a stampede-like situation, leaving scores injured and dozens unconscious.
According to reports, Vijay was delivering his speech from a custom-built campaign bus when workers in the crowd noticed people collapsing and raised alarms. Witnesses said he abruptly stopped his address as panic spread. In an attempt to help, Vijay and his team threw water bottles into the crowd before ambulances could arrive.
Emergency services, however, struggled to reach the scene. Ambulances were delayed by the densely packed streets, making rescue operations more challenging as the injured were rushed to hospitals.
Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma. Subramaniyan immediately rushed to Karur to coordinate medical relief. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed deep concern over the unfolding situation, writing on X (formerly Twitter):
“The news from Karur is worrying. I have asked for immediate medical treatment for those admitted to hospital after they fainted due to the stampede.”
Stalin also instructed Karur district secretary V. Senthilbalaji to monitor the situation and ensure that medical facilities were fully prepared to handle the influx of patients.
The tragedy has already triggered sharp political backlash. The ruling DMK party has demanded Vijay’s arrest, accusing him of negligence in managing the massive gathering and failing to ensure adequate crowd control measures.
Observers note that while political rallies are a hallmark of Tamil Nadu’s electoral culture, this incident is likely to intensify scrutiny of safety protocols at such events, particularly given the sheer size of Vijay’s rallies since entering politics.
Questions are being raised over whether proper planning and security arrangements were in place for such a massive turnout. Critics argue that the venue lacked sufficient barricading, medical readiness, and controlled entry points to prevent overcrowding.
The incident highlights the risks of unchecked crowd surges, especially when rallies extend for long hours and leaders arrive late, compounding restlessness among supporters.
Authorities are expected to launch an official inquiry into the stampede, examining lapses in crowd management and emergency preparedness. Compensation for the victims’ families is also likely to be announced by the state government.
Meanwhile, families of the deceased wait in anguish as hospitals continue to treat the injured. For many, a day meant to celebrate their leader’s political message has instead ended in shock and mourning.