Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Police on Tuesday arrested popular YouTuber Felix Gerald for allegedly spreading defamatory and misleading information about the tragic stampede at Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Vijay’s political rally in Karur on September 27, which claimed 41 lives, including several women and children.

Authorities stated that Gerald’s recent video commentary on the incident was not only inaccurate but also had the potential to incite public unrest.

FIRs filed against senior TVK leaders

The arrest came shortly after Karur Town Police confirmed the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against senior TVK leaders in connection with the rally. Those named in the FIR include TVK General Secretary of Election Campaign Management N. Anand alias ‘Bussy’ Anand, State Joint Secretary Nirmal Kumar, and Karur West District Secretary Mathiyazhagan.

Mathiyazhagan has already been taken into custody and is currently being interrogated by a special police team.

The case, now before Karur Judicial Magistrate Court No. 1, includes charges such as causing death by negligence and disobedience of public safety regulations.

READ MORE: Video captures panic at Karur rally: Teens ripping roofs, crowd collapsing | VIDEO

Government issues warning

Following Gerald’s arrest, the Tamil Nadu Police reiterated its stance on misinformation, cautioning the public and digital creators against spreading unverified claims.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who visited Karur soon after the tragedy, has ordered a judicial commission of inquiry led by retired judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan.

“We have already appointed a commission of inquiry under retired judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan. It is our duty to make sure such a tragedy never repeats. Those spreading rumours that disrupt peace will face action,” he said.

Opposition AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) strongly criticised the DMK government’s crowd control and safety measures.

“The administration failed to protect the lives of innocent people. There must be a fully transparent probe, not an eyewash,” he said.

READ MORE: Footage shows people being pulled out seconds before deadly stampede at Vijay’s rally in Karur | VIDEO

Actor-turned-politician Vijay, whose party organised the rally, expressed deep sorrow and pledged cooperation with investigators. “My heart goes out to the families who have suffered unimaginable loss. We will cooperate with all investigations and help ensure justice and relief for the victims,” Vijay stated.

His party has also promised financial assistance to the bereaved families. The tragedy has intensified debate about safety at political events in Tamil Nadu.

IANS inputs