Did Vijay Finally Reach Out to Karur Stampede Victims' Families?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Vijay is reaching out to families affected by the Karur stampede.
- He has pledged Rs 20 lakh to each family of the deceased.
- Vijay's initial absence drew public criticism.
- TVK is reassessing safety protocols for future events.
- Prominent leaders visited families after the tragedy.
Chennai, Oct 7 (NationPress) Actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay has initiated contact with the families of those who tragically lost their lives in the Karur rally stampede, conducting video calls to extend his condolences and offer support.
This decision follows a wave of criticism regarding his absence at the scene of the tragedy. The stampede took place on September 27 at Veluchamipuram in Karur during Vijay's first significant political roadshow after the establishment of his party.
Although the venue was designed to accommodate only a few thousand attendees, nearly 30,000 supporters gathered from early morning.
The event, originally planned for noon, commenced in the evening, leading to growing impatience among the tightly packed crowd.
Witnesses reported that chaos erupted when Vijay ascended his campaign vehicle to greet fans, resulting in a sudden surge that caused many to fall and become trampled.
As a result of the stampede, 41 individuals, including women and children, lost their lives, and over 60 others sustained injuries.
In the aftermath, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Opposition Leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami, and other prominent figures like Seeman, Premalatha Vijayakanth, and Kamal Haasan visited the victims' families and the injured shortly after the incident.
Vijay's absence from the scene sparked widespread public and political criticism, with many deeming it an emotional blunder.
TVK sources revealed that Vijay has now personally reached out to approximately 20 grieving families via video calls, expressing heartfelt condolences and assuring them that the party will support them.
He also committed to visiting the families in person once official investigations and relief efforts advance.
As part of his assistance, Vijay aims to provide Rs 20 lakh to each family of the deceased, in addition to the compensation already declared by the Tamil Nadu government.
Senior leaders from TVK have been assigned to visit the homes of victims, express solidarity on behalf of the party, and evaluate urgent needs.
This outreach is part of Vijay's strategy to manage the political ramifications of the tragedy and strengthen TVK's organizational capacity for future mass events.
Party insiders indicate that he is reassessing safety measures and contemplating the establishment of a trained volunteer group to oversee future gatherings.
Observers interpret this initiative as not only a compassionate response to mourning families but also as an effort to mend public perception following one of Tamil Nadu's most catastrophic political disasters.