What is the Supreme Court's Concern Regarding the Madras HC's Management of the Karur Stampede Case?
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Synopsis
The Supreme Court has expressed significant concerns over the Madras High Court's handling of the Karur stampede case, emphasizing the need for proper judicial proceedings in light of the tragic loss of 41 lives during a political rally. This incident raises critical issues about public safety and legal accountability.
Key Takeaways
- The Supreme Court expressed serious concerns about the Madras High Court's handling of the Karur stampede case.
- 41 individuals lost their lives during a political rally organized by TVK.
- A CBI investigation has been mandated under the supervision of Justice Ajay Rastogi.
- Issues of public safety and political accountability are at the forefront of this case.
- The Court's remarks indicate a need for improved judicial processes in handling such tragedies.
New Delhi, Dec 12 (NationPress) The Supreme Court expressed serious concerns on Friday regarding the handling of the Karur stampede case by the Madras High Court, stating that “something is amiss” in the judicial approach taken following the tragic event that resulted in the loss of 41 lives during a rally for actor-politician Vijay's party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).
A bench comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi ordered that the report from the Registrar General of the Madras High Court, which was submitted as per the Supreme Court’s previous directive, be distributed to all parties involved for their feedback.
This remark was made during the hearings of multiple petitions seeking an independent investigation into the stampede that occurred on September 27 in Veluchamipuram, Tamil Nadu.
The bench, led by Justice Maheshwari, stated, “There is something wrong occurring in the Madras High Court. This is not the appropriate procedure being followed in the High Court,” after reviewing the sealed report.
In its order issued on October 13, the Supreme Court raised questions about how the main seat of the Madras High Court in Chennai issued directives to form a Special Investigation Team (SIT) when the incident was within the jurisdiction of the Madurai Bench.
It also inquired about the issuance of such directions in response to a petition that only sought a standard operating procedure for political rallies.
The apex court subsequently mandated a CBI investigation overseen by a three-member Supervisory Committee led by former Supreme Court judge Justice Ajay Rastogi.
On Friday, the bench maintained its previous order that required the two senior IPS officers assisting Justice Rastogi on the supervisory panel to be “from the Tamil Nadu cadre but not originally from Tamil Nadu.”
Furthermore, the Supreme Court opted not to change or lift its interim directives, despite the state government's claim that its Commission of Inquiry, currently under a stay, would not obstruct the CBI investigation and would solely focus on making recommendations.
The Karur stampede is among the most devastating incidents in Tamil Nadu in recent years, raising significant issues regarding crowd management, safety measures, and political accountability in large public events.
The CBI, currently operating out of a temporary base in Karur under Justice Rastogi's oversight, has already summoned over 300 witnesses and interviewed local officials, including the Karur City Police Inspector Manivannan, who authorized the rally.
Point of View
The Supreme Court's scrutiny of the Madras High Court's actions in the Karur stampede case underscores the necessity for transparency and accountability in handling such significant tragedies. The investigation's outcome will have ramifications for public safety protocols and the political landscape in Tamil Nadu. NationPress remains committed to reporting on these critical issues.
NationPress
13/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Supreme Court's main concern regarding the Madras High Court?
The Supreme Court indicated that there is something wrong with the Madras High Court's handling of the Karur stampede case, questioning the judicial processes followed after the tragedy.
What was the outcome of the Supreme Court's inquiry?
The Supreme Court ordered a CBI investigation into the incident, which was previously managed by the Madras High Court, and emphasized the need for accountability.
How many lives were lost in the Karur stampede?
The Karur stampede tragically resulted in the loss of 41 lives during a political rally.
Who is overseeing the CBI investigation?
The CBI investigation is being supervised by a three-member committee headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice Ajay Rastogi.
What are the implications of the Supreme Court's findings?
The findings raise serious questions about crowd management practices, safety measures, and the political accountability of large public events in Tamil Nadu.
