What Did Vijay Announce After the Karur Stampede?
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Synopsis
In the wake of a devastating stampede during an election rally in Karur, Tamil actor Vijay announces substantial compensation for victims' families. This tragic event highlights the need for improved safety protocols at political gatherings.
Key Takeaways
- Vijay announced Rs 20 lakh for families of the deceased.
- Over 80 people were injured in the stampede.
- The tragedy marks one of Tamil Nadu's worst political events.
- A judicial inquiry is underway to investigate the incident.
- The Tamil Nadu Police are examining crowd control measures.
Karur, Sep 28 (NationPress) Actor-turned-politician and president of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), Vijay, declared an ex gratia of Rs 20 lakh for each family of the deceased and Rs 2 lakh for those injured in the tragic stampede that occurred in Karur. This devastating incident took place during Vijay's electrifying election campaign at Velusamypuram, resulting in the loss of 39 lives, including nine children and 16 women, while more than 80 individuals were injured.
In a heartfelt message shared on X, Vijay expressed that his “heart and mind are burdened with immense sorrow” due to the tragedy. He reminisced about the affection he received from supporters, stating, “This is a loss that cannot be mended. No words can ease such grief. However, as one of you, I will be there for you, providing Rs 20 lakh to each grieving family and Rs 2 lakh to those receiving treatment.”
He also pledged that TVK would offer comprehensive support to the injured and prayed for their swift recovery.
The stampede reportedly commenced after individuals had waited for hours in the blistering heat for Vijay to arrive; thousands had gathered on narrow approach roads well before the event was scheduled to start.
As the lights reportedly went out, the crowd surged, leading to many being crushed or suffocated before rescue teams arrived. Injured individuals were transported to the Government Medical College Hospital and nearby private facilities, with some sadly pronounced dead upon arrival.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who rushed to Karur, visited survivors and mourning families in hospitals. “Such a significant loss of life at a political gathering has never occurred in our state's history,” he remarked, announcing a judicial inquiry led by retired High Court judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan to investigate possible lapses.
CM Stalin had previously allocated Rs 10 lakh from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for each deceased's family and Rs 1 lakh for those injured.
Leader of the Opposition Edappadi K. Palaniswami also visited Karur, offering comfort to survivors while criticizing what he termed “serious security lapses.” He urged the government to enforce stringent safety measures at political rallies.
The Tamil Nadu Police have initiated an investigation into the incident, focusing on crowd management and organizational failures that led to one of Tamil Nadu’s most tragic political events.
Point of View
I believe that the government must prioritize the well-being of citizens at such gatherings to prevent future tragedies.
NationPress
28/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How much compensation did Vijay announce for the victims?
Vijay announced Rs 20 lakh for each family of the deceased and Rs 2 lakh for those injured.
What caused the stampede in Karur?
The stampede began after hours of waiting in the heat for Vijay's arrival, leading to a surge in the crowd.
Who is leading the inquiry into the stampede?
The inquiry is being led by retired High Court judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan.
What actions are being taken by the Tamil Nadu Police?
The Tamil Nadu Police have registered a case and are investigating crowd control and organizational lapses.
What was the response from political leaders?
Political leaders, including Chief Minister M.K. Stalin and Opposition Leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami, have expressed their condolences and called for better safety measures.
