Karur Stampede Claims 39 Lives at Vijay’s Rally, Political Outcry Over Crowd Safety

Chennai, September 28 (TNA) A massive crowd surge at Tamil star-politician Vijay’s campaign rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, led to a devastating stampede on Saturday evening, leaving at least 39 dead and over 50 wounded, including children and women.

The tragedy unfolded when thousands of supporters, gathered well beyond the expected capacity, surged forward following a prolonged six-hour wait under intense heat for Vijay’s arrival. Panic erupted near the stage as people collapsed and ambulances struggled to reach the injured amid chaotic scenes.

Eyewitnesses reported parents desperately searching for missing children in the confusion, while live footage captured Vijay halting his speech, offering water, and calling for police help.

Chief Minister MK Stalin visited Karur, announcing ₹10 lakh compensation for bereaved families and urgent medical aid for survivors, and ordering a judicial probe led by retired Justice Aruna Jagadeesan. The rally organisers and police have faced sharp criticism from opposition leaders, who cite gross negligence and failure to manage crowd safety.

Political fallout continues as calls grow for stricter security protocols and accountability at future mass gatherings. The incident stands as one of recent history’s deadliest crowd disasters in Tamil Nadu and has triggered nationwide mourning and demands for immediate reform in event management standards