Chennai, Oct 2 (NationPress) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Tamil Nadu has intensified its criticism of the DMK government following the tragic stampede in Karur that claimed the lives of 41 individuals. The party is now calling for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry, accusing the ruling party of providing protection to former minister Senthil Balaji.

In a pointed statement, BJP state spokesperson A.N.S. Prasad asserted that the DMK is "complicit in undermining democracy" by perpetuating "the politics of money and deceit" rather than addressing the real issues faced by the populace.

He accused Senthil Balaji, who is under investigation for corruption, of having "no moral authority to comment on public affairs," asserting that his recent press briefing was an attempt to manipulate facts and divert attention from the tragedy.

"Senthil Balaji’s unchecked, anti-people actions and dubious politics of wealth and influence cannot conceal justice," Prasad stated, urging the DMK to cease "profiting from tragedies and indulging in the business of death."

Prasad urged Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to rise above political motives and declare a CBI investigation to unveil the "true conspiracy" behind the stampede, ensuring justice for the families of the victims.

He warned that the BJP would "consistently reveal the betrayal of Tamil Nadu’s citizens" and seek legal accountability for those responsible.

The BJP also lambasted the state government’s rapid establishment of a one-member commission led by retired High Court judge Aruna Jagadeesan, deeming it an effort to deflect public outrage.

"Why is Senthil Balaji attempting to preempt the commission’s findings and disseminate misleading narratives?" Prasad questioned.

Pointing out inconsistencies in Balaji’s statements, the BJP noted that the former minister had effectively admitted to corruption allegations at state-run TASMAC liquor outlets by acknowledging numerous instances of undercharging and overcharging since 2021.

Prasad insisted that Chief Minister Stalin must clarify these irregularities to the public.

The party revealed plans for a team of National Democratic Alliance (NDA) MPs from Tamil Nadu, headed by BJP national president J.P. Nadda, to submit a comprehensive report to the Centre advocating for a Supreme Court-monitored judicial investigation into administrative failures by the state police.

The Union Home Ministry has already requested a report from the Tamil Nadu government following the Prime Minister’s condolence message and emergency aid to victims’ families. Prasad concluded that the people of Tamil Nadu are "awakening to the reality" behind the Karur tragedy and that the BJP "will persist until justice is achieved."