How Did President Murmu and Leaders React to the Tragic Stampede at Vijay’s Rally?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Over 29 lives lost in the stampede at Vijay's rally.
- President Murmu and other leaders expressed condolences.
- Calls for improved crowd control measures are being made.
- Authorities are conducting rescue and medical operations.
- Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to visit Karur.
Chennai, Sep 27 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu has voiced her profound sorrow over the tragic loss of lives in a stampede that occurred during actor-turned-politician and Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay’s rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, where the death toll has exceeded 29.
“I am deeply pained to learn about the tragic loss of lives in this unfortunate stampede in Karur district. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and pray for the swift recovery of the injured,” President Murmu shared in a post on X late Saturday.
Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi also expressed his sorrow, stating that the loss of innocent lives, including children, has left him “deeply pained and anguished.” He added, “My sincere condolences to the families in mourning, and my prayers for the quick recovery of the injured.”
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the news of the fatalities as “deeply saddening,” offering support and prayers for the affected families and those injured.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh referred to the tragedy as “heartbreaking,” extending his condolences and wishing for the prompt healing of the injured.
Former Chief Minister and AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) termed the incident “shocking and painful,” urging the state government to provide compensation and comprehensive medical assistance to the victims.
Actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam leader Kamal Haasan stated, “My heart trembles… I implore the government to ensure those rescued from the chaos receive adequate treatment and relief.”
Superstar Rajinikanth also took to X, saying, “The news of the loss of innocent lives is heartbreaking. My deepest condolences to the grieving families.”
Tamil Nadu Congress leaders have expressed their sorrow and called upon party workers to assist the injured and their families.
Former Tamil Nadu BJP state president K. Annamalai criticized the DMK government and state police, demanding a thorough investigation into the failures of crowd control and emergency response.
According to police reports, TVK had requested permission for a roadshow in Karur and, in a letter dated September 25, estimated a turnout of only 10,000 people. However, the actual crowd size reportedly far surpassed this estimate. The letter included an engineer’s plan indicating the venue could accommodate up to 60,000, but the crowd swelled uncontrollably, leading to the tragic crush.
Authorities are continuing rescue and medical operations, while Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is slated to visit Karur to meet with survivors and evaluate the situation.