What Happened During Udhayanidhi Stalin's Visit to Stampede Victims in Karur?
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Synopsis
On September 28, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin visited the families affected by a tragic stampede in Karur, claiming 39 lives, including children. As the government mobilizes support, questions arise about safety measures at political events. This incident highlights the urgent need for better crowd management in Tamil Nadu.
Key Takeaways
- 39 fatalities including children, during the stampede.
- 349 doctors mobilized for treatment of the injured.
- Compensation of Rs 10 lakh for families of the deceased.
- Investigation led by Justice Aruna Jagadeesan.
- Call for better safety measures at political events.
Karur, Sep 28 (NationPress) The Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Udhayanidhi Stalin, visited the families affected by the tragic stampede that resulted in the loss of 39 lives during the election rally of actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Vijay at Velusamypuram in Karur. Among the deceased were nine children.
After his visit to the Government Medical College Hospital in Karur, Udhayanidhi informed reporters that Chief Minister M.K. Stalin promptly arrived in the district following the incident.
He stated, "The Chief Minister immediately directed local MLAs, MPs, and officials to reach the hospital and provide essential assistance. I spoke with those in the ICU to check on their treatment. A total of 349 doctors from across Tamil Nadu are involved in the care, including 200 from Karur, 30 from Salem, 9 from Namakkal, and more from Dindigul, Pudukkottai, Coimbatore, and Tiruchi."
Udhayanidhi mentioned that 30 bodies had been released to families following post-mortem examinations and transported via special ambulances.
"This is an irreparable loss. As a government, we are doing everything we can. I do not intend to assign blame or politicize this tragedy. However, it is the duty of party organizers to manage volunteers effectively and adhere to schedules to prevent such occurrences in the future," he added, noting that a one-member Commission of Inquiry led by Justice Aruna Jagadeesan would begin its investigation at 1 p.m. at the accident site.
Chief Minister Stalin, who visited Karur shortly after midnight, declared Rs 10 lakh for each family of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh for the injured.
He remarked, "Never before in Tamil Nadu's history have so many lives been lost at a political event. The inquiry report will inform strict safety protocols for future gatherings."
Former Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, who also visited the injured and grieving families, stated that better security measures could have averted the tragedy.
"The police and administration must guarantee equal safety for all political events. Such incidents must be prevented in the future," he stressed.
The stampede reportedly occurred after attendees endured long hours in the sun without sufficient food and water, leading to confusion surrounding Vijay's delayed arrival. Authorities confirmed that over 80 others sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment.
Point of View
Drawing attention to the need for stringent safety protocols during large gatherings. While the government responds with compassion and support, it's crucial to address systemic issues that could prevent such incidents in the future.
NationPress
28/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the stampede in Karur?
The stampede reportedly broke out due to attendees waiting for long hours in the sun without adequate food and water, combined with confusion over actor Vijay's delayed arrival.
How many people were affected by the stampede?
The tragic incident resulted in 39 fatalities, including 9 children, and over 80 others were injured.
What compensation has been announced for the victims' families?
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for each family of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh for the injured.
What steps are being taken to ensure safety at future events?
A one-member Commission of Inquiry, led by Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, will investigate the incident, and safety measures will be reviewed to prevent similar occurrences.
What has been the political response to the stampede?
Political leaders, including former Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, have called for improved security planning for political events to ensure public safety.
