'Responsibility of The Police...': Annamalai Refuses To Blame Vijay Over TVK's Karur Stampede, Attacks DMK

Former Tamil Nadu BJP chief K. Annamalai, often known for his sharp attacks on TVK leader Vijay, took a different stand after the Karur stampede tragedy, choosing instead to back the actor-politician while blaming the ruling DMK government for the mishap.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Annamalai expressed shock over the loss of nearly 40 lives, including children, and said his "deepest condolences" go out to the bereaved families. He also urged the government to ensure proper treatment for all those injured in the incident.

Importantly, Annamalai refrained from criticising Vijay, who was addressing the rally when the stampede broke out, and instead pointed the finger squarely at the DMK administration.

"For a political party's gathering, it is the responsibility of the police to estimate the number of attendees, select an appropriate venue, and deploy adequate police personnel. Reports of a power cut at the venue are also worrying. The government and police acting with such negligence is highly condemnable," Annamalai said.

He accused the DMK of deliberately failing to provide sufficient security at opposition events, even as the ruling party deploys "an entire district police force" for its own functions. Annamalai demanded compensation for the victims' families, along with a probe into the role of security lapses and the alleged power disruption.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin confirmed that 36 people, including eight children and 16 women, lost their lives in the tragedy. He convened an emergency review meeting, announced ₹10 lakh compensation for each victim's family, and set up a Commission of Inquiry led by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan.

National leaders, including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, expressed their condolences. Shah has sought a detailed report from the Tamil Nadu government and assured central assistance.

The incident took place when Vijay, who was addressing a massive crowd from atop his campaign vehicle, abruptly stopped his speech after noticing people fainting in the crowd. Many among the deceased were women and children who had been waiting for hours to see the TVK leader.

Stalin described the situation as "worrisome" and dispatched senior ministers and officials to oversee relief work. He is expected to visit Karur personally.

The tragedy has now triggered a political blame game, but Annamalai's response stood out - as he chose to shield Vijay and put the onus entirely on the DMK government's handling of security.