Why has CBI summoned TVK leader Vijay to appear on Jan 12 in the Karur stampede case?
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Chennai, Jan 6 (NationPress) The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has officially summoned Vijay, the founder and president of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), instructing him to present himself in New Delhi on January 12.
This summons pertains to the Karur stampede incident where 41 lives were lost. The unfortunate event took place on September 27 at Veluchamipuram in Karur district, coinciding with a political rally organized by the TVK.
Vijay, who has recently become active in politics, spoke at the rally, which attracted a considerable number of supporters from the region. As the crowd exceeded expectations, disorder ensued, leading to a stampede.
In response to public outcry and calls for an independent investigation, the inquiry was shifted from the state police to the CBI.
The agency is currently scrutinizing crowd management protocols, permissions for the rally, and the involvement of organizers and party officials.
As part of the investigation, senior TVK members Anand, Adhav Arjun, and party executive Nirmal Kumar were questioned by the CBI at its Delhi office for nearly two hours.
After the interrogation, Nirmal Kumar revealed that video footage related to the Karur stampede had been provided to assist the investigation.
Although there was earlier speculation regarding Vijay's potential summons, TVK leaders had initially dismissed such reports. However, it has now been confirmed that the agency is seeking Vijay’s account regarding the rally's execution and crowd management.
The timing of the summons is significant as it occurs just days ahead of Vijay’s new film Jana Nayagan, set to release on January 9.
Vijay has been ordered to appear in New Delhi on January 12 to cooperate with the investigation. He officially launched the TVK in February 2024, marking his shift from cinema to political engagement.
Since its inception, TVK has attracted large audiences to its events, branding itself as a burgeoning political entity in Tamil Nadu.
The CBI's inquiry into the Karur stampede continues, with officials indicating that accountability for shortcomings in crowd control and event management will be assessed using documentation, video evidence, and witness testimonies.