Karur Stampede: TN ADGP Confirms No Stone-Pelting At Vijay Rally, TVK Violated Rules

Tamil Nadu ADGP Davidson Devasirvatham on Sunday clarified that no stone-pelting occurred during actor-turned-politician Vijay's rally in Karur. He pointed out, however, that the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leadership violated rules, a day after a stampede at the event claimed 40 lives and left more than 70 people injured.

"Our investigation shows there was no stone-pelting," Devasirvatham said during a press conference.

The ADGP explained that the organisers had sought permission for a gathering of 12,000 people, and adequate police personnel had been deployed. However, Vijay arrived at the venue only by 6 pm, and the crowd had swelled rapidly by then, triggering the stampede. "Many youngsters were not willing to listen to anyone, including volunteers and bouncers," he added.

Death Toll and Compensation

Karur District Collector M Thangavel confirmed that the death count has reached 40. He stated that the state government is taking all possible measures to prevent further casualties. An ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh will be given to the families of those who lost their lives, while Rs 1 lakh will be provided to the injured.

Retired HC Judge Inspects Stampede Site

Retired Madras High Court judge Aruna Jagadeesan, appointed by the Tamil Nadu government to conduct a detailed inquiry, visited the stampede site on Sunday. Speaking to reporters, she emphasised that steps must be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. "The commission has been set up to address shortcomings. Incidents like this should not occur again, and necessary remedial measures will be implemented," ANI quoted her as saying.

TVK Moves Madras High Court

The TVK also approached the Madras High Court on Sunday, seeking a CBI or Special Investigation Team probe into the Karur stampede. Advocates led by the party's advocates' wing president, S Arivazhagan, visited Justice M Dhandapani's residence on Greenways Road in Chennai to make a mention.

Alternatively, the party requested the court to initiate suo motu proceedings regarding the incident that caused 40 deaths. According to TVK functionary Nirmal Kumar, the judge directed the advocates to file the petition before the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court.