Tamil Nadu YouTuber Detained, TVK Officials Face Charges Over Karur Stampede

Tamil Nadu police have detained YouTuber Felix Gerald in connection with the Karur stampede that claimed 41 lives and injured 60 others during a campaign rally for actor-turned-politician Vijay, leader of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). Gerald, who runs the RedPix YouTube channel, is accused of posting misleading content about the tragic incident.

Social Media Crackdown

On Monday, the Chennai Police registered cases against 25 individuals for allegedly sharing provocative content on social media related to the Karur stampede. Authorities said such posts could disturb public peace and potentially incite tensions. Further arrests in connection with these posts are expected.

Arrests of TVK Officials

The Karur district secretary of TVK, Mathiazhagan, was arrested Monday for his alleged role in the stampede that occurred during a campaign roadshow by Vijay on Saturday night. The FIR identifies three party officials as the main suspects:

• Mathiazhagan, Karur district secretary
• Bussy N Anand, state general secretary
• CTR Nirmal Kumar, state joint secretary

The FIR clarified that TVK chief Vijay was not named, noting that he conducted unauthorised roadshows before reaching Velusamypuram, where the stampede occurred amid a large crowd.

Legal Charges

The three TVK officials face charges under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including:

• Section 105 - culpable homicide not amounting to murder
• Section 110 - attempt to commit culpable homicide
• Section 125 - endangering life
• Section 223 - disobedience to order
• They are also charged under Section 3 of the Tamil Nadu Public Property (Prevention of Damage and Loss) Act, 1992.

Authorities continue to investigate the stampede and associated social media activity, aiming to ensure justice and prevent further unrest related to the tragedy.