Karur stampede: Vijay says he stayed away to avoid ‘unusual situation’
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Chennai: Four days after the Karur stampede that killed 41 people during his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally, actor-turned-politician Vijay released an emotional video on Tuesday, saying he had refrained from visiting the bereaved families to prevent an “unusual situation” on the ground.
“I have never faced such a painful situation in my life,” Vijay said. “I didn’t visit Karur as it would lead to an unusual situation. I will meet you (families of the victims and the injured) soon.” He expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and assured that the truth behind the incident would emerge soon.
Vijay also sent a pointed message to the DMK-led government, following police action against his party colleagues, including senior leaders Bussy N Anand and CTR Nirmal Kumar, who were booked under multiple sections for alleged lapses in rally management. “CM sir, if you have a thought of seeking vengeance, you may do anything to me and not touch the party men,” he said, adding that he was ready to face any action personally.
The September 27 rally at Velusamypuram near Karur turned fatal when a massive crowd surged toward Vijay, triggering a stampede that killed 41 people, including women and children, and injured around 60 others. Police said the organisers had underestimated crowd size and failed to control entry points, while sudden power cuts and ensuing confusion worsened the panic.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who visited Karur within hours of the tragedy, announced relief measures and set up a one-member Commission of Inquiry, headed by retired judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, to probe the lapses. DMK sources said the government would wait for the inquiry report before determining accountability. Stalin had earlier appealed for public restraint, urging people not to spread unverified claims.
Opposition AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) criticised the DMK government, calling the loss of 41 lives a “serious administrative failure.” He added that proper safety checks and coordination with the police could have prevented the disaster and accused the ruling party of targeting opposition voices while failing to take responsibility for security arrangements.
With emotions running high, Vijay’s statement is seen as both a damage-control move to reassure supporters and a direct challenge to the DMK’s narrative on the tragedy. The state now awaits the inquiry report, which will shape the political fallout of one of Tamil Nadu’s worst rally disasters.
With IANS inputs
