What Happened at the TN Stampede that Claimed 31 Lives?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A tragic stampede during Vijay's campaign rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, left 31 dead and many injured. Chief Minister Stalin is set to visit the site, raising concerns about crowd safety at political events.
Key Takeaways
- Tragic stampede at Vijay's campaign rally in Karur.
- 31 confirmed dead, with over 40 injured.
- Chief Minister Stalin to visit the site.
- Questions arise about crowd management and safety protocols.
- Government pledges support to victims' families.
Karur, Sep 27 (NationPress) A massive turnout at Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) leader and actor Vijay's campaign rally in Tamil Nadu's Karur on Saturday transformed into a tragic event when a sudden surge in the crowd led to chaos, claiming at least 31 lives and leaving numerous others injured, many of whom are in critical condition.
State Health Minister Ma Subramanian reported that those who lost their lives include 16 women, nine men, and six children.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is scheduled to visit Karur on Sunday to meet with the injured and assess the relief operations.
The rally at Velusamipuram commenced around 7:20 p.m., initially creating a festive atmosphere as thousands gathered to listen to Vijay speak.
However, panic ensued when an unexpected power cut plunged the venue into darkness.
The densely packed crowd swayed and surged forward, resulting in a stampede-like scenario.
Before the chaos, Vijay had been voicing local concerns, including illegal sand mining and mineral theft.
He also criticized the state government, suggesting that a change of power was imminent within six months.
What began as a celebration quickly devolved into turmoil as attendees struggled to exit the overcrowded venue in darkness.
Witnesses described how the lack of ventilation and overcrowding caused many, including children and elderly women, to faint.
Parents frantically carried unconscious children through the crowd while volunteers attempted to clear space for ambulances and police.
Rescue operations were hampered by blocked exits and the sheer volume of people present.
Police, led by Karur Superintendent of Police K. Josh Thangiah, worked to stabilize the situation and open pathways for emergency vehicles.
Ambulances lined up at the site to transport the injured to the Karur Government Medical College Hospital.
Officials confirmed the death toll has risen to 31, with over 40 individuals still hospitalized.
Doctors reported that several patients are in critical condition, including three children in the intensive care unit.
Chief Minister Stalin, monitoring the situation from Chennai, has directed immediate medical assistance.
In response, Ministers Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi and Ma Subramanian rushed to Karur to oversee rescue and medical care.
Additional DGP (law and Order) Davidson Devasirvatham was also dispatched to manage security and crowd control.
The Karur Government Hospital has been described as resembling a "war zone" as doctors and paramedics tirelessly treat the injured.
Former Minister V. Senthil Balaji assessed the emergency facilities by visiting the injured.
The state government has pledged full support to the families of the victims.
CM Stalin is set to visit Karur on Sunday to personally engage with those affected and evaluate the response to this tragedy.
Questions are being raised regarding the safety protocols and crowd management at large political events.
TVK has not yet released an official statement.
Point of View
It is our responsibility to present the facts surrounding this tragic event with the utmost sensitivity. The loss of lives in such a manner raises serious concerns regarding safety measures at public gatherings. Our thoughts are with the victims' families, and we urge authorities to take immediate actions to ensure safety at future events.
NationPress
27/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the stampede at the rally?
The stampede was triggered by a sudden power outage that plunged the venue into darkness, causing panic among the densely packed crowd.
How many people were affected?
As of now, 31 individuals have lost their lives, and over 40 people remain hospitalized, many in critical condition.
What is the government's response?
Chief Minister Stalin has directed immediate medical assistance and will visit Karur to assess the situation and provide support to the victims' families.
Are there any safety measures in place for future events?
Questions are being raised about safety protocols and crowd management at large political gatherings, highlighting the need for improved measures.
What will happen next regarding the investigation?
Authorities are expected to conduct an investigation into the incident, focusing on safety protocols and crowd control measures at the rally.
