Chennai: Expressing grief over the loss of 41 lives in the Karur stampede on September 27, the Madras High Court on Friday constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) under IPS officer Asra Garg to probe the incident.

"Watching the videos is painful," said Justice N Senthilkumar, voicing shock that only two individuals have been arrested so far in connection with the tragedy.

The High Court criticised Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) leaders and rally organisers associated with former politician Vijay for failing to assist the public, including children, and for not taking responsibility for the incident.

"Whether they are leaders or party workers, after this incident, while the President, Prime Minister, Chief Minister, and all political parties expressed grief and engaged in rescue efforts, the organisers of the event, the party members, had completely walked away," the court observed.

While constituting the SIT, Justice Senthilkumar directed the Karur Police to immediately hand over all case documents related to the stampede to the investigative panel.

In a related matter, the High Court reserved its decision on the anticipatory bail pleas of TVK General Secretary Bussi Anand and Deputy General Secretary Nirmal Kumar. The court did not specify a date for delivering its ruling.

Earlier, the High Court took notice of an accident involving Vijay’s campaign, asking, "Has a case been registered in this regard?" Commenting on videos of the alleged accident that had surfaced, the court added, "What prevents registering a case? Even if no complaint is given, the police must file one."

Meanwhile, a division bench comprising M Dhandapani and M Jothiraman rejected a petition by BJP leader Uma Anandan seeking a CBI probe into the stampede but allowed the petitioner to approach the court if the investigation is not conducted properly.

"Don't treat this court as a political arena, said the court, questioning the petitioner's locus stand in the matter. "If aggrieved persons come to this court, we will rescue," it added, urging the petitioner to ensure the investigation into the September 27 Karur incident progresses beyond its current initial stage.

The BJP leader had sought a High Court directive for a CBI probe, alleging that the fatalities were linked to official negligence.

The High Court passed the order while hearing multiple petitions, including requests from some victims’ families seeking an increase in compensation announced by the authorities.

The bench also noted the Tamil Nadu government’s proposal to frame standard operating procedures (SOPs) for rallies or meetings held near schools or national highways. The court suggested that future political rallies or meetings at designated locations should include adequate arrangements for drinking water, sanitation, escape routes, and parking facilities to minimise the risk of stampedes.

IANS