Chennai, Sep 29 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu government has appointed Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Premanandan as the new investigating officer to spearhead the inquiry into the tragic stampede that occurred during the rally of TVK president and actor Vijay in Karur. The decision follows the unfortunate rise in the death toll to 41, with two more individuals succumbing to their injuries while 67 others remain hospitalized.

This heartbreaking incident took place on Saturday evening at Veluchamipuram, Karur, where thousands congregated to catch a glimpse of Vijay, who had just finished a campaign stop in Namakkal and arrived around 7 p.m.

Witnesses reported that the enormous crowd surged forward upon his arrival, instigating panic and chaos. Many attendees were either crushed or fainted as the stampede escalated. Ambulances worked tirelessly throughout the night to transport victims to medical facilities.

Among the recent fatalities were Kavin, a young man who had been in the intensive care unit, and Sukuna, a local resident from Veluchamipuram. Their passing increased the death toll from 39 to 41.

Authorities have stated that the decision to replace DSP Selvaraj, who initially led the investigation, with ASP Premanandan aims to enhance the investigation's independence and urgency.

The government has committed to conducting a comprehensive judicial inquiry into the failures in crowd management and event oversight.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, expressing profound sorrow, stated, “This is an unbearable loss for Tamil Nadu. We have initiated a judicial inquiry and appointed a new senior officer to ensure accountability and prevent similar tragedies in the future.”

CM Stalin also announced compensation for the victims’ families and is closely monitoring the recovery of the injured.

Opposition leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) criticized the government for not anticipating the large turnout. “Despite being aware that Vijay’s rally would draw thousands, there was a lack of adequate crowd management and security. The government must take responsibility for these preventable deaths,” he asserted.

TVK president Vijay described the loss as “irreparable,” expressing solidarity with the grieving families and confirming a compensation of Rs 20 lakh for each family of the deceased and Rs 2 lakh for those injured. “No words can ease this pain, but I share your sorrow,” he said.

This tragedy has ignited demands from various parties for stricter safety measures at political events as the upcoming Assembly elections approach.