Karur rally stampede: Madras HC had flagged TVK’s crowd mismanagement days earlier

Chennai / Karur: A deadly stampede-like situation that unfolded at actor-turned-politician Vijay’s rally in Karur on Saturday has intensified scrutiny on his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), coming just days after the Madras High Court raised concerns over the safety and management of its public events.

The High Court had earlier flagged alleged damage to public property and inadequate crowd control at a recent TVK rally in Tiruchi. Justice N. Sathish Kumar, while hearing TVK’s petition challenging “excessive” police restrictions, had warned that political leaders must take responsibility for crowd management and ensure public safety.

The Court had specifically pointed out that if safety for vulnerable groups — including children, the elderly, and the differently-abled — couldn't be guaranteed, they should not be encouraged to attend such rallies.

What happened in Karur rally?

Saturday’s tragic incident, which left at least 20 people feared dead, unfolded during a massive campaign event led by Vijay in Karur. A sudden crowd surge caused panic, resulting in multiple people fainting, injuries, and a missing child. Vijay was seen halting his speech and calling for police assistance from the stage.

Following the Chief Minister M K Stalin's directive, DMK district secretary and former minister Senthil Balaji immediately headed to the hospital to oversee relief measures. State Health Minister Ma Subramanian is also en route to the hospital, where the injured are being treated.

In a post on X, CM Stalin stated, "I have contacted former Minister @V_Senthilbalaji, Honourable Minister @Subramanian_Ma and the District Collector to provide immediate treatment to the public who have fainted and been admitted to the hospital due to the crowding."