Should TVK Leaders Honor TN Stampede Victims by Skipping Diwali Celebrations?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- TVK's call for a somber Diwali reflects their commitment to honoring the victims.
- Ongoing investigations highlight serious lapses in crowd management.
- Financial compensations have been pledged to support the affected families.
- Community unity is emphasized in times of tragedy.
- Diwali celebrations will take on a different meaning this year.
Chennai, Oct 18 (NationPress) Actor-turned-politician Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) has made a heartfelt request to its members and supporters, urging them not to celebrate Diwali this year to honor the memory of those who tragically lost their lives in the Karur stampede last month.
In a message shared on the social media platform X, the TVK stated, "In light of the unfortunate events in Karur, which took many of our dear ones, our party President Vijay has asked that no member of the TVK partake in Diwali celebrations this year. Let us come together in silence and pay our respects to their memory."
This call reflects the profound sorrow within the TVK as they continue to grieve the loss of their supporters.
Diwali, known as the 'Festival of Lights', is set to be celebrated on October 20 this year.
This decision comes as the pain from the Karur tragedy is still fresh, with families working through the aftermath of the devastating incident that transpired during a rally led by Vijay.
The stampede, which occurred at the site of the TVK's significant public meeting in Karur, resulted in the loss of 41 lives and left over 60 individuals injured.
The majority of those affected had gathered to catch a glimpse of Vijay, a celebrated star in Tamil Nadu.
Witnesses described chaotic scenes as crowds surged towards the stage, resulting in a deadly crush.
Following the incident, petitions were filed in the Madras High Court and subsequently escalated to the Supreme Court, calling for an impartial investigation into the tragedy.
The Supreme Court, after reviewing the case, instructed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take charge of the investigation, overseen by a three-member committee led by former Supreme Court judge Ajay Rastogi, emphasizing the critical need for a transparent inquiry into the serious lapses in crowd management.
Since then, the CBI has initiated its investigation, gathering CCTV footage, interviewing local police and revenue officials, and collecting statements from witnesses and organizers.
Earlier, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh for those injured.
Meanwhile, Vijay pledged Rs 20 lakh to the families of the deceased and Rs 2 lakh for the injured.
By urging its members to observe a subdued Diwali, the TVK aims to convey collective sorrow and unity, transforming what is typically a vibrant festival into a time for reflection and remembrance.