39 Dead in Karur Rally Stampede, How Did Vijay’s TVK Event Turn Deadly?

A stampede occurred at a rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, resulting in the deaths of at least 39 individuals, including nine children, and leaving over 50 injured. The event was organised by actor-politician Vijay's party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), approximately 400 km from Chennai on Saturday.

Vijay, a prominent figure in Tamil cinema for more than three decades, has been attracting large crowds since launching TVK in 2024. Unfortunately, the rally turned chaotic around 7:30 pm when a stampede erupted shortly after Vijay began addressing his supporters. Many attendees had been waiting since the afternoon to see him.

Unexpected Crowd Surge

The Tamil Nadu Police chief reported that Vijay arrived late for the rally. According to G Venkatraman, DGP in-charge of Tamil Nadu, the actor-politician reached the venue at 7:30 pm, although the event was scheduled to start at 3 pm. Organisers had expected around 10,000 people; however, nearly three times that number showed up.

"Earlier rallies of TVK had smaller crowds," Venkatraman stated. "This time the turnout was far higher than expected. Though organisers requested a large ground in Karur for about 10,000 people, nearly 27,000 gathered," he added. The venue lacked adequate food and water for those waiting under the hot sun.

Security and Crowd Management

Over 500 police personnel were deployed for security during the event. Despite their efforts, Vijay emphasised that party cadres must take responsibility for crowd management. "Vijay himself appreciated the police for their role but stressed that party cadres must take responsibility for crowd management," an official said.

Panic spread when attendees began fainting and falling due to overcrowding. Several women and children were among those who collapsed. Vijay halted his speech midway, threw water bottles to distressed supporters, and appealed for police assistance.

Investigation Underway

The exact reasons behind this incident will only be revealed after an inquiry. "A one-man commission has already been set up," said Venkatraman. "Until then I cannot comment further on it," he added.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin addressed reporters regarding the casualties: "So far, 39 people have died including 13 men, 17 women, four boys and five girls." Another 51 individuals are receiving intensive treatment at hospitals.

The state government announced compensation of ₹10 lakh each for families of victims. Stalin also deputed ministers such as Ma Subramanian to oversee relief and medical arrangements.

Expressing grief on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Vijay wrote: "My heart is broken; I am in unbearable indescribable pain and sorrow." He conveyed condolences to the families affected while praying for the speedy recovery of those hospitalised.