Vijay’s TVK Suspends Statewide Tour After Karur Stampede

Actor-turned-politician Vijay's party, Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK), has suspended its statewide tour for two weeks following the stampede in Karur, Tamil Nadu, that claimed 41 lives, many of them women and children.

The announcement, made via TVK's official X handle, expressed grief over the tragedy and said fresh details of public meetings would be announced later.

Stampede During Rally

The incident occurred on Sunday when around 30,000 people gathered at a venue designed for 10,000. Police investigations point to inadequate crowd management, poor arrangements for food and water, and violations of security guidelines. Attendees had assembled by noon, but Vijay appeared only at 7 pm, further intensifying crowd pressure.

Party Response and Allegations

TVK leaders rejected charges of negligence, insisting their past rallies had been conducted safely. They alleged a political conspiracy by local DMK leaders, though the ruling party has dismissed such claims. Meanwhile, police have booked key TVK leaders, including Vijay's close aide N Anand, under charges of culpable homicide and endangering human life.

In a video message, Vijay voiced his anguish over the tragedy. Explaining his decision to stay away from Karur immediately after the incident, he said his presence might have worsened the chaos. He pledged to meet the victims' families soon and appealed to Chief Minister MK Stalin's government to direct any political rivalry at him personally, not his cadres.

Legal Action

Authorities have arrested TVK's Karur West district secretary Mathiyazhagan and South City treasurer Pounraj. Both are facing questioning under charges that include violations of public order and the Tamil Nadu Public Property (Prevention of Damage and Loss) Act.