Chennai, Jan 10 (NationPress) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has confiscated actor-politician Vijay's campaign vehicle as part of its ongoing inquiry into the tragic stampede that took place during his public meeting in Karur on September 27 last year, resulting in the loss of 41 lives and numerous serious injuries.

Officials have reported that the campaign bus, utilized by Vijay during the rally and transported from Panaiyur to Karur, is currently under examination by investigators to validate movement logs, travel timings, and adherence to permissions granted for the event.

The driver of the vehicle is also being interrogated to confirm details related to the rally day schedule and crowd dynamics.

The unfortunate incident reportedly transpired amidst overwhelming crowding and alleged failures in crowd-control measures at the venue where Vijay addressed his supporters.

To ensure a fair inquiry, the case was handed over to the CBI, which has since amplified its investigation by interrogating political leaders and district officials linked to the event.

Previously, on November 25, senior leaders of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) appeared before the CBI in New Delhi. Those questioned included party General Secretary Bussy Anand, Election Campaign Management General Secretary Adhav Arjun, and Joint General Secretary C.T.R. Nirmal Kumar.

TVK Karur West District Secretary K.P. Mathiyazhagan and M.C. Paunraj were also examined.

Investigators indicated that the leaders were interrogated on various issues, including rally planning, permissions acquired, crowd forecasts, security arrangements, and logistical coordination.

On December 4, Karur District Collector Thangavelam was summoned and questioned for over two hours regarding administrative approvals, inter-departmental coordination, and the response mechanisms in place on the day of the rally.

In a significant development, the CBI has issued a formal summons to Vijay, instructing him to appear before investigators at the agency's headquarters in New Delhi on January 12.

Sources indicate that the questioning will center on his role as the main speaker, the planning and execution of the event, and decisions made by the organizing committee concerning crowd management.

The investigation aims to establish accountability for the oversights that led to one of the deadliest political rally disasters in recent years.

Officials suggested that further questioning of significant witnesses and thorough scrutiny of documentary evidence will proceed in the upcoming days.