Video captures panic at Karur rally: Teens ripping roofs, crowd collapsing | VIDEO
Karur: Several videos have surfaced on social media in the aftermath of the tragic stampede at actor-politician Vijay’s political rally in Karur, offering chilling glimpses into the moments of panic that arose.
In one of the viral clips, a group of teenage boys, wrapped in Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party flags, can be seen desperately tearing off the straw roofs of nearby huts and climbing up in a frantic attempt to escape the swelling crowd. Surrounded by thousands of people packed into a narrow public road, the teens appear to be searching for an exit route as the situation on the ground deteriorates.
In another video, which is also being widely shared online, Vijay can allegedly be seen continuing his rally speech even as several people had fainted and were lying unconscious on the ground.
Disclaimer: The video below may contain distressing scenes. Please watch with caution.
The authenticity of both videos is currently unverified.
What led to the deadly stampede?
The incident occurred during a rally held by Vijay, the president of the newly launched Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK). The event saw an unexpected turnout of nearly 27,000 people, far exceeding the 10,000 that organisers had initially planned for.
According to Tamil Nadu DGP G Venkataraman, the crowd began gathering as early as 11 am after TVK’s social media page announced Vijay would arrive by noon. However, the actor-politician only reached the venue at 7:40 pm, leaving attendees waiting for over seven hours under intense heat with limited access to food or water.
As dehydration and exhaustion set in, many began fainting. The pressure of the growing crowd led to people being pushed and trampled near Vijay’s campaign vehicle, forcing him to stop his speech mid-way and be escorted away to safety.
Police have confirmed that 39 people, including 10 children, lost their lives in the stampede, and more than 50 others were injured.