Vijay Rally Stampede: TVK Chief Leaves Without Comment on Karur Horror

Actor-turned-politician Vijay left Trichy Airport for Chennai on Saturday without responding to media questions about the tragic stampede at his rally in Karur, which claimed 34 lives and injured 46 others.

Despite journalists seeking a statement, the actor walked past without comment-continuing his streak of media silence since launching his political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).

The incident occurred during a massive gathering in Karur, where Vijay was scheduled to speak following an earlier rally in Namakkal. A senior police officer estimated that over 30,000 people had assembled. His arrival was delayed by more than six hours, during which time the crowd swelled uncontrollably. Police sources told NDTV that the stampede was triggered when several people fainted amid a surge forward.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed shock over the tragedy, posting on X: "Reports from Karur saddening. I have ordered urgent treatment for those who fainted, and instructed the health minister, collector and former minister Senthil Balaji to help. The ADGP has been tasked to restore normalcy. Minister Anbil Mahesh has been directed to extend help on a war footing. I appeal to the public to cooperate with the police."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reacted, calling the incident "deeply saddening" and offering prayers for the victims and their families: "My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. Wishing strength to them in this difficult time. Praying for a swift recovery to all those injured."

This isn't the first time Vijay's rallies have drawn scrutiny. His debut event in Trichy earlier this month caused a six-hour traffic jam as thousands escorted his convoy from the airport to the venue. In response to safety concerns, police had imposed 23 conditions for future TVK rallies, including bans on convoy participation and public receptions, and advisories for vulnerable groups to follow events online.

Vijay's continued silence in the face of mounting questions has raised eyebrows, especially as the Karur tragedy casts a shadow over his political debut.