Karur, India — A tragic rally in Karur turned deadly Saturday evening, claiming 39 lives during an event addressed by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Vijay, an actor and politician. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin quickly expressed his sorrow over the incident, which he described as unprecedented in the state’s political history.
Speaking to reporters, Stalin conveyed his shock, stating it was unimaginable to witness such a loss of life at a political event. “This is a moment of deep sorrow for our state,” he said, recounting how he learned of the stampede while addressing officials in Chennai around 7:45 p.m. He immediately contacted former Minister Senthil Balaji to gather more information and to ensure that medical assistance was dispatched to the scene.
The CM confirmed that while 39 people had lost their lives, 51 others were hospitalized, many in critical condition. He emphasized that such a tragedy must never recur, promising comprehensive support for the victims’ families. The government will provide 1 million rupees to the families of the deceased and 100,000 rupees to those injured.
In a move aimed at ensuring accountability, Stalin announced the formation of an inquiry commission led by a retired High Court judge. He reassured the public that all facts will be thoroughly investigated, and those responsible will face strict repercussions. “I’m committed to transparency in this matter. Once the inquiry concludes, appropriate actions will be taken,” he stated.
The chief minister visited the Government Medical College and Hospital in Karur on Sunday, where he met with the injured and paid tribute to those who lost their lives. He reflected on the harsh reality of the incident with a heavy heart, acknowledging how traumatic this experience has been for the affected families and the community.
Despite the political nature of the gathering, Stalin refrained from attributing blame during his remarks. Instead, he expressed a desire to focus on healing and supporting the victims, urging the public to refrain from speculation until the investigation is complete. As the community comes to terms with the shocking event, many residents have expressed their disbelief and outrage over the circumstances that led to the stampede.
The state government is now under increasing pressure to ensure public safety at large gatherings, especially those involving political organizations. As investigations continue, advocates are calling for measures to prevent such incidents in the future.