The death toll from the stampede at actor-politician Vijay’s TVK campaign rally in Karur rose to 41 after a 65-year-old woman succumbed to her injuries late Sunday night. Sukuna from Velusamipuram had gone missing after the rally and was later found in the Karur Government Hospital’s intensive care unit.
Despite treatment, she could not be saved. The tragedy struck Saturday evening at Velayudhampalayam, where thousands had gathered to hear Vijay speak. Witnesses said the crowd swelled beyond capacity, triggering panic. Many were trapped in narrow exit lanes, fainted, and were trampled in the chaos.
Over 80 Injured as Emergency Services Respond
More than 80 people were injured during the stampede, with several in critical condition. Emergency services struggled to reach victims as ambulances worked through the night to transport the injured to hospitals. By Sunday night, authorities identified and released 34 bodies to their families. Police and medical teams continued efforts to manage the injured and secure the area. Officials confirmed that investigations would focus on safety lapses and crowd management. Residents described the scene as chaotic, with panic spreading rapidly as people pushed forward to get a glimpse of the TVK leader, worsening the crush.
National Leaders Express Condolences
President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, saying she was “pained by the loss of lives in Karur” and conveyed condolences to bereaved families. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called the incident “heart-rending” and announced ex gratia payments of Rs 2 lakh each to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured from the PM National Relief Fund. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin flew to Karur and described it as “an unprecedented loss of innocent lives,” announcing Rs 10 lakh compensation per deceased family and ordering a judicial inquiry into safety lapses at the rally.
Opposition Demands Accountability
Opposition Leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami visited survivors and families, demanding accountability from the state government. He said police and intelligence failed to anticipate the massive turnout and ensure proper security at the event. Authorities have registered cases and launched an investigation into the disaster. The probe focuses on crowd management, safety protocols, and the reasons behind inadequate arrangements for such a large political gathering. Officials confirmed they will review security plans for future rallies to prevent similar tragedies and ensure public safety during mass events.
Vijay Offers Support to Victims
Vijay expressed that the deaths were “an irreparable loss” and said his heart was “overwhelmed with profound heaviness.” He pledged personal compensation of Rs 20 lakh per bereaved family and Rs 2 lakh for the injured. Vijay also vowed to support the victims in every possible way. Authorities are coordinating with families and hospitals to provide assistance. The investigation will examine the causes of the stampede and safety measures in place during the rally. Citizens, political leaders, and social organizations continue to offer support and tributes to the victims of the Karur tragedy.
Swastika Sruti is a Senior Sub Editor at NewsX Digital with 5 years of experience shaping stories that matter. She loves tracking politics- national and global trends, and never misses a chance to dig deeper into policies and developments. Passionate about what’s happening around us, she brings sharp insight and clarity to every piece she works on. When not curating news, she’s busy exploring what’s next in the world of public interest. You can reach her at [swastika.newsx@gmail.com]
