Stampede at actor-turned-politician Vijay’s Karur rally kills 38, injures 46; delay, overcrowding, and heat blamed. CM Stalin announces probe and compensation.
By Qalam Times News Network | Karur | September 27, 2025
Chaos Unfolds
A stampede at Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay’s rally in Karur turned deadly on Saturday evening, leaving at least 38 people, including eight children, dead and 46 others injured. The incident occurred as tens of thousands of supporters thronged the streets to catch a glimpse of the actor-turned-politician.
Bottles Thrown, Crowd Surges
Videos from the event show Vijay halting his speech as the crowd swelled dangerously near his campaign bus. Noticing distress among the packed supporters, the TVK chief tossed water bottles into the mass of people, with aides joining in to help. Moments later, the stampede broke out, sending shockwaves through the gathering.
Delay and Political Barbs
Officials revealed that Vijay was scheduled to reach Karur by noon but arrived only after 6 pm, by which time the roads had become dangerously overcrowded. The DMK accused the TVK leader of deliberately delaying his arrival to stage massive visuals of support, while Vijay’s supporters dismissed the allegation as politically motivated.
State’s Response
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin expressed his condolences, confirming that among the dead were 16 women and eight children. He announced a compensation of ₹10 lakh each for the victims’ families and ordered top-level medical care for those hospitalized.
Stalin also confirmed that a judicial inquiry, led by retired High Court Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, would investigate the tragedy. “The loss of these precious lives has shaken us all,” he said, adding that he would personally meet the bereaved families and the injured in Karur.
