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At least 39 people, including several children, lost their lives and over 95 others were injured in a horrific stampede during a political rally of TVK chief and actor-turned-politician Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu. The incident occurred on Saturday evening when overcrowding and chaos broke out during Vijay’s address, causing panic and mass fainting that eventually led to the deadly stampede.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin rushed to Karur in the early hours of Sunday to console grieving families and meet the injured at the Government Medical College and Hospital. Expressing deep sorrow, he announced financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh for those injured. He also ordered a judicial inquiry, to be led by retired Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, to investigate the circumstances of the tragedy.
Centre Seeks Detailed Report From Tamil Nadu Govt
The Union Home Ministry has requested a detailed report from the Tamil Nadu government. Home Minister Amit Shah also reviewed the situation with Governor RN Ravi and CM Stalin, assuring full central assistance.
Officials reported that the stampede began around 7:30 pm, shortly after Vijay began his speech from atop his campaign vehicle. The actor-politician halted his address when he noticed several people collapsing in the crowd, which included women and children.
Vijay’s Reaction To The Tragedy
Actor-Politician Vijay expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, saying that he was overwhelmed with grief and pain. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in Karur and wished a speedy recovery to the injured being treated in hospitals.
“My heart is shattered; I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital,” Vijay wrote in a post on X.
Home Minister Amit Shah Speaks To Tamil Nadu CM And Gov
Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin and Governor R. N. Ravi regarding the Karur stampede, inquiring about the incident and assuring that the central government would provide all necessary assistance.
Condolences from National Leaders
National leaders, including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, and Governor RN Ravi, also conveyed their condolences.